Marlboro County Soil Data
Marlboro County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Sand
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Marlboro County, South Carolina
Spodosols of the coastal plain
Marlboro County is characterized by Spodosols with an acidic pH of 5.17. This acidity level sits below the state average of 5.27 and is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5.
Sand-dominant soil structure
This soil is classified as Sand, consisting of 73.7% sand, 15.0% silt, and 10.0% clay. The high sand percentage allows for excellent aeration but means the soil has less natural ability to hold onto water.
Competitive organic matter
Organic matter stands at 1.90%, which is nearly on par with the state average of 2.05%. The available water capacity is 0.100 in/in, indicating a need for consistent irrigation during dry South Carolina summers.
Poorly drained despite sandy texture
The soil is classified as poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group A/D. This suggests that while the top layers are sandy, a high water table or restrictive subsurface layer can lead to seasonal saturation.
Ready for zone 8a gardening
Hardiness zone 8a is perfect for growing southern favorites like blueberries and pecans that tolerate acidic conditions. Despite a soil score of 17.3, focused soil amendments can create a highly productive backyard garden.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Marlboro County have?
Marlboro County's soil is classified as Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 74% sand, 15% silt, and 10% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Marlboro County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Marlboro 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 Marlboro County?
Marlboro 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 Marlboro County's soil?
Based on Marlboro County's Sand texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Marlboro County?
Marlboro 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Marlboro 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.