Berkeley County Soil Data
Berkeley County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
4.2%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Berkeley County, South Carolina
Silt loam Entisols dominate Berkeley
Berkeley County is characterized by Entisols with a dominant silt loam texture and an average pH of 5.23. This pH is very close to the South Carolina state average of 5.27 but remains below the national median of 6.5. These soils represent a unique mix of young geological deposits and rich organic accumulation.
A silty and workable soil profile
The composition consists of 65.8% sand, 17.1% silt, and 14.5% clay. The silt loam texture is highly prized by gardeners because it is easier to work than heavy clay but retains more moisture than pure sand. This balance provides an excellent medium for both agricultural crops and home landscapes.
Top-tier organic matter levels
Berkeley boasts an impressive organic matter content of 4.16%, more than double the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 2.05%. Its available water capacity of 0.111 in/in is nearly identical to the state average. This combination makes Berkeley's soil some of the most naturally fertile in the region.
Managing poorly drained, low-lying land
The soil is classified as poorly drained and falls into Hydrologic Group C/D, indicating slow infiltration and high runoff potential. In this low-lying county, water tends to sit near the surface, especially during the rainy season. Raised garden beds are often the best solution for local homeowners to avoid 'wet feet' for their plants.
Garden success in Zone 8b
With the long, warm season of Zone 8b, Berkeley is a paradise for growing everything from camellias to summer vegetables. The incredibly high organic matter means you likely won't need much fertilizer to get started. Dig into this rich, silty soil and take advantage of some of the best growing conditions in South Carolina.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
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: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Berkeley County have?
Berkeley County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 66% sand, 17% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Berkeley County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Berkeley County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Berkeley County?
Berkeley 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 Berkeley County's soil?
Based on Berkeley County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Berkeley County?
Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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.