Horry County Soil Data
Horry County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.0
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
3.4%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Horry County, South Carolina
Acidic Alfisols along the coast
Horry County features Alfisols with a dominant texture of fine sandy loam and a pH of 5.04. This pH level is quite acidic compared to the national median of 6.5, though it is typical for coastal South Carolina. These soils are historically productive but usually require pH adjustments for most garden vegetables.
Sandy loams with fine textures
The soil is comprised of 75.1% sand, 13.5% silt, and 8.9% clay. This fine sandy loam offers a better balance of workability and nutrient retention than pure sand. The silt and clay fractions help bind the soil, though sand remains the primary driver of its physical behavior.
Rich organic content leads the state
Horry County boasts a high organic matter content of 3.40%, well above the state average of 2.05%. Despite this richness, the available water capacity of 0.097 in/in is lower than the state average of 0.115 in/in. Gardeners benefit from the high fertility but must stay vigilant about irrigation during dry spells.
Managing poorly drained coastal soils
The dominant drainage class is 'Poorly drained' with a hydrologic group of C/D, indicating high runoff potential when wet. These characteristics mean the soil stays saturated longer than average, which can be a challenge for basement construction or root health. Raised beds are often a smart choice for local home gardeners.
Thriving in the coastal Zone 8b
In Hardiness Zone 8b, the climate allows for a wide variety of coastal favorites like blueberries and azaleas which tolerate acidic soils. The high organic matter provides a fantastic foundation for a productive backyard plot. Start your seeds early to make the most of the long, humid growing season.
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: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Horry County have?
Horry County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 75% sand, 13% silt, and 9% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Horry County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Horry 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 Horry County?
Horry 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 Horry County's soil?
Based on Horry County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 5.0, 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 Horry County?
Horry 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 Horry 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.