Tillamook County Soil Data
Tillamook County, Oregon
Avg pH
4.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
51.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Tillamook County, Oregon
The Coastal Acidic Powerhouse
Tillamook County has an extremely acidic soil profile with an average pH of 4.52. This is significantly lower than both the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 5.26. This intense acidity is a hallmark of the wet, forest-rich coastal environment.
Silty Soils of the Coast
The soil contains 48.6% silt and 30.8% sand, which provides a crumbly and workable texture. Clay levels are relatively low at 16.0%, helping to prevent the soil from becoming too heavy despite the high rainfall. This balance supports the massive root systems of the county's famous timber and pasture lands.
Unmatched Organic Wealth
Organic matter here is staggering at 51.54%, which is nearly double the state average and 25 times the national average. This richness is paired with a high available water capacity of 0.371 in/in. The result is a sponge-like soil that holds incredible amounts of nutrients and moisture.
Handling the Coastal Deluge
The high available water capacity is vital in a region that receives so much annual precipitation. While the soil texture is silty, the sheer volume of organic matter dictates how water moves through the landscape. Effective drainage is a primary concern for any coastal construction or agricultural venture.
A Lush Haven in Zone 9a
The 9a hardiness zone and nutrient-packed soil make Tillamook perfect for berries, hydrangeas, and lush pastures. If you can manage the acidity with lime, your vegetable garden will grow with prehistoric vigor. Embrace the rain and start your coastal garden today.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Tillamook County have?
Tillamook County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 49% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Tillamook County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Tillamook County's soil has a low pH of 4.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Tillamook County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Tillamook County.
What crops or plants grow well in Tillamook County's soil?
Based on Tillamook County's Loam texture, pH of 4.5, 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 Tillamook County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Tillamook County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Tillamook County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Oregon
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.