Beaufort County Soil Data
Beaufort County, South Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Loamy fine sand
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
3.1%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Beaufort County, South Carolina
Coastal Alfisols with acidic tendencies
Beaufort County's landscape is defined by Alfisols with a loamy fine sand texture and an average pH of 5.10. This is more acidic than the state average of 5.27 and falls well below the national median of 6.5. These soils represent the transition between the sandy coast and the more developed profiles of the interior.
Fine sands meet a loamy touch
The soil contains 71.4% sand, 16.4% silt, and 12.3% clay. This loamy fine sand texture makes the soil exceptionally easy to handle and allows for good root penetration. The presence of silt and clay provides more structure than pure beach sand, helping to hold onto essential plant nutrients.
Rich organic matter in the Lowcountry
Beaufort stands out with an organic matter content of 3.10%, significantly higher than the state average of 2.05% and the national average of 2.0%. However, its available water capacity of 0.105 in/in is slightly below the state average of 0.115 in/in. This suggests a fertile soil that still requires careful water management.
Slow drainage in a coastal environment
The dominant soil is classified as poorly drained, reflecting the low-lying nature of this coastal county. It belongs to Hydrologic Group A/D, meaning it can drain well if managed but often behaves like a slow-draining clay due to a high water table. Managing moisture is the primary challenge for Beaufort gardeners and builders.
Subtropical gardening in Zone 9a
As one of the few Zone 9a regions in the state, Beaufort can grow citrus, palms, and other subtropical plants. The high organic matter provides a fantastic nutrient base for a lush, productive garden. Embrace the unique Lowcountry climate by planting a diverse range of salt-tolerant and heat-loving species.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loamy fine sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Beaufort County have?
Beaufort County's soil is classified as Loamy fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 71% sand, 16% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Beaufort County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Beaufort County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Beaufort County?
Beaufort County has a dominant drainage class of "Poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Beaufort County's soil?
Based on Beaufort County's Loamy fine sand texture, pH of 5.1, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Beaufort County?
Beaufort 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: Beaufort County
Soil Verdict
Beaufort County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. 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
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Beaufort County is somewhat warmer than the South Carolina statewide average. The zone range of 9a-9b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Beaufort 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.