Washington County Soil Data
Washington County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
18.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Washington County, North Carolina
Deeply Acidic Coastal Peats
Washington County has a very low average pH of 4.62, much more acidic than the state average of 5.14 and the national median of 6.5. This extreme acidity is typical of coastal wetlands where organic acids accumulate over centuries. It creates a specialized chemical environment that requires specific management for traditional farming.
Light and Silty Texture
The soil consists of 45.2% sand and 25.6% silt, with a low clay content of 10.3%. This texture is relatively light and porous, though the high organic content often masks the gritty feel of the sand. It is a unique physical profile that stays soft and workable throughout the year.
A Powerhouse of Organic Matter
Boasting a massive 18.48% organic matter, Washington County far exceeds the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 5.12%. This drives a high Available Water Capacity of 0.206 in/in and a soil score of 62.4. This is some of the most nutrient-capable soil in North Carolina, provided the acidity is managed.
Water Management in the Lowlands
Specific drainage and hydrologic classes are not listed, but the extremely high organic matter indicates a soil that holds water like a sponge. In this coastal environment, managing the water table is often more important than worrying about irrigation. High water capacity can lead to saturation, so proper field drainage is a common local practice.
Bounty in Hardiness Zone 8a
Washington County's Zone 8a climate and rich soil are a dream for blueberries, azaleas, and camellias. The abundance of organic matter provides a natural fertilizer bank that most gardeners can only dream of. Tap into this coastal fertility and watch your garden grow with incredible vigor.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
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 4.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Washington County have?
Washington County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 45% sand, 26% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Washington County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Washington County's soil has a low pH of 4.6, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Washington County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Washington County.
What crops or plants grow well in Washington County's soil?
Based on Washington County's Loam texture, pH of 4.6, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Washington County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Washington County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Washington County
Soil Verdict
Washington 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
Washington County closely matches the North Carolina average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 8a-8b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Washington 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.