Lancaster County Soil Data
Lancaster County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Sandy clay
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Lancaster County, South Carolina
Entisols and sandy clays in Lancaster
Lancaster County's soil is characterized as Entisols with a dominant texture of sandy clay and a pH of 5.24. This pH is nearly identical to the state average but significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. These soils are often less developed but offer a unique texture compared to the sandier coast.
High clay content increases retention
With 16.1% clay and 26.9% silt, this soil is much heavier than the state average. The 55.5% sand content is low for South Carolina, meaning this ground holds onto nutrients and water much better than coastal soils. However, it may be more difficult to work when it is wet or very dry.
Lower organics but superior water storage
The organic matter content is relatively low at 1.67%, falling below both the state and national averages. Conversely, the available water capacity of 0.132 in/in is higher than the state average of 0.115 in/in. This soil is a reliable water reservoir for plants even if it needs supplemental compost.
Predictable drainage for the Piedmont
The dominant drainage class is 'Moderately well drained' with a hydrologic group of C. This indicates moderate infiltration rates and predictable water movement, which is beneficial for both farm yields and stable home foundations. It provides a solid middle ground for most land uses.
Hardy gardening in Zone 8a
Lancaster County is located in Hardiness Zone 8a, where summer crops like tomatoes and peppers thrive alongside spring favorites like peas. The clay-rich soil is excellent for holding the moisture those plants need during a hot August. Get out there and plant something today in this resilient soil.
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sandy clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lancaster County have?
Lancaster County's soil is classified as Sandy clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 56% sand, 27% silt, and 16% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Lancaster County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lancaster 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 Lancaster County?
Lancaster County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Lancaster County's soil?
Based on Lancaster County's Sandy clay texture, pH of 5.2, and Moderately well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, wetland plants and crops tolerant of slow drainage, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Lancaster County?
Lancaster 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 Lancaster 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.