Wake County Soil Data
Wake County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Wake County, North Carolina
Acidic Foundation of the Capital
Wake County soils maintain an average pH of 5.32, which is slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.14. However, it remains well below the national median of 6.5, meaning most local gardeners will still need to apply lime. This acidity is a hallmark of the weathered crystalline rocks found throughout the region.
A Gritty, Sandy Profile
The soil is remarkably sandy at 57.4%, paired with 31.3% silt and a low 11.2% clay content. This high sand fraction makes the ground easy to dig but also means it dries out quickly after summer storms. It provides an excellent physical structure for urban development and landscaping.
Above Average Water Retention
Despite having low organic matter at 1.22%, Wake County achieves an Available Water Capacity of 0.165 in/in, surpassing the state average of 0.134. This efficiency helps the county reach a soil score of 25.7, nearly reaching the state average of 29.4. This indicates that while the soil is lean, it holds onto moisture better than many neighboring counties.
Urban Drainage and Soil Health
Specific drainage classifications are not provided, but the high sand content generally points toward well-drained conditions. In an urbanizing county like Wake, protecting this drainage capacity from compaction is essential for tree health. Careful planning is needed to manage stormwater in areas with such low clay levels.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8a
Wake County’s Zone 8a climate allows for a massive variety of ornamental and edible plants. The sandy soil is a dream for native perennials and drought-tolerant shrubs once they are established. Whether you are in Raleigh or the suburbs, adding compost will turn this sandy base into a thriving backyard farm.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Wake County have?
Wake County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 31% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Wake County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Wake County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Wake County?
Wake County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Wake County's soil?
Based on Wake County's Loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Wake County?
Wake County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Wake County
Soil Verdict
Wake County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Wake County closely matches the North Carolina average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Wake County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in North Carolina
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.