Marion County Soil Data
Marion County, South Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Marion County, South Carolina
Acidic soil with high potential
Marion County features highly acidic soil with a pH of 5.06, which is lower than both the state average of 5.27 and the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is limited for this area, the chemical profile suggests a unique environment for native and acid-loving plants.
A sandy foundation for easy tilling
The soil composition is 72.2% sand, 15.5% silt, and 9.8% clay. This high sand content makes the earth very easy to work and till, though it may require more frequent nutrient management than heavier soils.
Exceptional organic matter levels
At 3.18%, the organic matter in Marion County far exceeds the state average of 2.05% and the national average of 2.0%. This richness provides a fertility boost that helps offset an available water capacity of 0.109 in/in.
Managing water in sandy terrain
While specific drainage classes are not recorded here, the 72.2% sand profile typically indicates rapid water movement. Gardeners should monitor for quick drying and consider mulch to help maintain moisture levels.
Thriving in hardiness zone 8b
Hardiness zone 8b supports a long, warm growing season for heat-tolerant crops like peppers and sweet potatoes. With a soil score of 24.2, your land actually outpaces the state average of 20.6 for growing potential.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loamy Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Marion County have?
Marion County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 72% sand, 16% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Marion County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Marion County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Marion County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Marion County.
What crops or plants grow well in Marion County's soil?
Based on Marion County's Loamy Sand texture, pH of 5.1, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Marion County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Marion County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Marion County
Soil Verdict
Marion 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
Marion County closely matches the South Carolina average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Marion 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.