Edgefield County Soil Data
Edgefield County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.1%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Edgefield County, South Carolina
Fine Sandy Loams of the Alfisols
Edgefield County is characterized by Fine Sandy Loam and the Alfisols taxonomic order. Its pH of 5.46 is less acidic than the state average of 5.27, though it remains below the national median of 6.5.
A Balanced Loamy Blend
With 63.0% sand, 23.8% silt, and 13.2% clay, this soil offers a more balanced texture than coastal neighbors. This higher silt and clay content helps the soil retain both moisture and vital nutrients for crops.
Steady Moisture, Low Carbon
The available water capacity of 0.120 in/in beats the state average, indicating reliable moisture retention. However, organic matter is low at 1.12%, suggesting a need for cover crops or compost to boost long-term fertility.
Reliable Well-Drained Grounds
This soil is classified as well-drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group C. These properties make Edgefield's land suitable for agriculture and development, as it manages rainfall effectively without excessive saturation.
Peaches and Beyond in 8b
Edgefield is famous for its peaches, which thrive in these well-drained loams in zone 8b. Add compost to your home garden to compensate for the naturally low organic matter and watch your yields grow.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Edgefield County have?
Edgefield County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 63% sand, 24% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Edgefield County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Edgefield County's soil has a low pH of 5.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Edgefield County?
Edgefield 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 Edgefield County's soil?
Based on Edgefield County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Edgefield County?
Edgefield 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Edgefield 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.