Lexington County Soil Data
Lexington County, South Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Sand
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Lexington County, South Carolina
Midlands soil with moderate acidity
Lexington County soil has a pH of 5.47, which is slightly less acidic than the state average but still below the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is unlisted, the pH level is relatively favorable for many regional crops. This moderate acidity is a hallmark of the Midlands' transition zone.
Silty and sandy Midlands mix
The soil contains 64.5% sand, 20.0% silt, and 10.8% clay. This mixture has a higher silt content than many coastal counties, which contributes to better nutrient availability and a smoother texture. It is a versatile ground that is relatively easy to manage for home landscapes.
Standard water capacity and low organics
Organic matter is 1.41%, which is lower than the state average of 2.05%. However, the available water capacity of 0.114 in/in is almost exactly the state average of 0.115 in/in. This means the soil has a normal ability to store moisture for plants compared to other South Carolina counties.
Awaiting hydrology and drainage data
Dominant drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not yet classified in this dataset for Lexington County. Homeowners and developers should look for local signs of water flow and soil saturation after heavy rains. The balanced composition suggests generally reliable drainage, but site-specific data is always best.
Endless possibilities in Zone 8b
Lexington County falls into Zone 8b, where long summers and mild winters are the norm. This climate is excellent for growing everything from camellias to tomatoes and summer squash. Your balanced soil texture is a great foundation for any garden project you choose to start.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
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: Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lexington County have?
Lexington County's soil is classified as Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 64% sand, 20% silt, and 11% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Lexington County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lexington 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 Lexington County?
Lexington 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 Lexington County's soil?
Based on Lexington County's Sand texture, pH of 5.5, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Lexington County?
Lexington County's dominant soil order is Spodosols. Spodosols are acidic soils with a distinct subsurface layer of organic matter and iron/aluminum. They typically form under coniferous forests in cool, humid climates.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lexington County
Soil Verdict
Lexington County is in USDA hardiness zone 8b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 15°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Lexington County closely matches the South Carolina average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 8a-8b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lexington 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.