Laurens County Soil Data
Laurens County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.7
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Laurens County, South Carolina
Alfisols with a higher-than-average pH
Laurens County features Alfisols with a sandy loam texture and an average pH of 5.69. This is the highest pH among the counties in this group, though it remains below the national median of 6.5. These soils are naturally more balanced and may require less lime than other parts of the state.
The versatile mix of sandy loam
The soil composition consists of 68.3% sand, 16.4% silt, and 15.3% clay. This sandy loam texture is often considered ideal for gardening because it drains well while the clay keeps nutrients available for plant roots. It is a workhorse soil that responds well to traditional farming practices.
Excellent water capacity with lean organics
The organic matter is quite low at 1.10%, which is well below the state average of 2.05%. However, the available water capacity is high at 0.124 in/in, surpassing the state average of 0.115 in/in. Plants here have access to a deep water reserve, though the soil requires more organic amendments for peak health.
Well-drained soils for deep roots
Laurens County soil is 'Well drained' with a hydrologic group of D, which typically suggests high runoff when saturated but excellent air space for roots. This drainage class prevents waterlogging, making it perfect for fruit trees and other deep-rooted perennials. It is an efficient landscape for water management.
A prime environment in Zone 8a
Sitting in Hardiness Zone 8a, Laurens County is an excellent place to grow heavy feeders like corn or squash. With the high water capacity and well-drained profile, your garden can survive the heat of a Piedmont summer. Your soil is ready for a boost of compost to start a successful season.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Laurens County have?
Laurens County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 68% sand, 16% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Laurens County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Laurens County's soil has a pH of 5.7, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Laurens County?
Laurens 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 Laurens County's soil?
Based on Laurens County's Sandy loam texture, pH of 5.7, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Laurens County?
Laurens 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 Laurens 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.