Dillon County Soil Data
Dillon County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.0
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Dillon County, South Carolina
Highly Acidic Coastal Plain Soils
Dillon County features an average pH of 5.01, significantly more acidic than the state average of 5.27 and the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is limited for this area, the low pH indicates a need for lime to balance soil chemistry for most crops.
Gritty Textures and Rapid Movement
The soil is dominated by 72.0% sand, with 15.7% silt and 10.1% clay rounding out the mix. This sandy profile provides excellent aeration but requires careful management to prevent fertilizers from leaching away too quickly.
Strong Organic Matter, Low Storage
Organic matter content is impressive at 3.03%, far exceeding the state average of 2.05%. However, the available water capacity of 0.109 in/in sits below the state benchmark of 0.115, meaning plants may dry out faster during hot spells.
Managing Water in Sandy Ground
While specific drainage class data is unavailable, the high sand percentage typically facilitates rapid drainage. Farmers and builders here must account for this fast-moving hydrology when planning irrigation or foundation drainage.
Growing in Hardiness Zone 8b
Dillon County's climate and high organic matter are ideal for acid-loving crops like blueberries and sweet potatoes. Local gardeners should supplement with lime to make the most of this 8b hardiness zone.
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: Loamy Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Dillon County have?
Dillon County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 72% sand, 16% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Dillon County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Dillon County's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Dillon County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Dillon County.
What crops or plants grow well in Dillon County's soil?
Based on Dillon County's Loamy Sand texture, pH of 5.0, 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 Dillon County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Dillon County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Dillon 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.