Anderson County Soil Data
Anderson County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.0%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Anderson County, South Carolina
Entisols with a sandy loam touch
Anderson County is characterized by Entisols, which are relatively young soils with limited profile development. The dominant texture is sandy loam with an average pH of 5.51. This pH level is slightly more alkaline than the South Carolina average of 5.27 but remains well below the national median of 6.5.
A balanced, workable soil mix
The soil composition is 60.0% sand, 20.2% silt, and 16.7% clay, providing a versatile environment for roots. This mix offers a better balance of drainage and nutrient retention than the sandier coastal counties. It is generally considered easy to work, though the clay content can make it sticky when wet.
Low organic matter but excellent water capacity
At 0.96%, the organic matter in Anderson is significantly lower than both the state average of 2.05% and the national average of 2.0%. However, it excels in available water capacity at 0.124 in/in, which is higher than the state average. This means the soil is efficient at storing the water it receives, even if it lacks natural nutrients.
Well-drained with moderate infiltration
The county's soils are classified as well-drained, making them excellent for a variety of construction and agricultural uses. Falling into Hydrologic Group B, these soils have a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. This group is generally favorable for home gardening as it balances drainage with moisture retention.
Tapping into Zone 8a potential
Anderson County lies in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, which is perfect for growing everything from summer squash to vibrant zinnias. Because the organic matter is low, your plants will benefit greatly from regular applications of compost or aged manure. With its strong water capacity, your garden will be resilient even during dry spells.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Anderson County have?
Anderson County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 60% sand, 20% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Anderson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Anderson County's soil has a pH of 5.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Anderson County?
Anderson 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 Anderson County's soil?
Based on Anderson County's Sandy loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Anderson County?
Anderson County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Anderson County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in South 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.