Wayne County Soil Data
Wayne County, North Carolina
Avg pH
4.9
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Wayne County, North Carolina
The Sandy Heart of the Coastal Plain
Wayne County has an average pH of 4.89, which is more acidic than both the state average of 5.14 and the national median of 6.5. This low pH is a defining characteristic of the coastal plain's mineral soils. It requires careful management to ensure that essential nutrients remain available for crops.
High Sand, Low Clay Mix
This county features some of the sandiest soil in the region at 68.6%, with only 10.0% clay and 19.6% silt. This extremely coarse texture means the soil is exceptionally easy to till and work. However, such high sand content also leads to rapid drainage and a high potential for nutrient leaching.
Modest Water Capacity
Wayne County’s organic matter is 3.13%, which is higher than the national 2.0% average but lower than the NC state average. Its Available Water Capacity is 0.131 in/in, sitting just below the state benchmark of 0.134. A soil score of 25.8 indicates that the soil is capable but benefits from supplemental irrigation and feeding.
Rapid Drainage Challenges
While specific hydrologic groups are not listed, a 68.6% sand composition guarantees very rapid drainage across the county. This is excellent for preventing root rot but makes the land susceptible to drought during dry spells. Efficient irrigation systems are a staple for successful farming in this sandy environment.
Growing in Hardiness Zone 8a
In Zone 8a, Wayne County is famous for its tobacco and vegetable production, benefiting from the warm climate and easy-to-work soil. Gardeners will find success with crops like corn and peppers that love the heat. With regular watering and organic mulches, your coastal plain garden will truly flourish.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Wayne County have?
Wayne County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 69% sand, 20% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Wayne County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Wayne County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Wayne County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Wayne County.
What crops or plants grow well in Wayne County's soil?
Based on Wayne County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 4.9, 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 Wayne County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Wayne County is not currently available in our dataset.
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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.