McCormick County Soil Data
McCormick County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in McCormick County, South Carolina
Classic southern Ultisols
McCormick County features Ultisols with a pH of 5.49, making it one of the less acidic counties in the region. This pH is higher than the state average of 5.27, though still below the national median of 6.5.
The balanced loam advantage
The dominant texture is Loam, composed of 53.6% sand, 28.5% silt, and 17.1% clay. This mix provides a superior balance of workability and the ability to retain essential nutrients for plant growth.
High water capacity resilience
Available water capacity is impressive at 0.139 in/in, which is much higher than the state average of 0.115. While organic matter is lower than average at 1.07%, the soil’s ability to hold water provides a safety net during droughts.
Handling slow-draining loam
These soils are classified as poorly drained and fall into hydrologic group D. Because water moves slowly through this profile, avoid planting in low spots where water might pool after a storm.
Gardening in hardiness zone 8b
Zone 8b offers a generous window for a wide variety of vegetables and ornamental shrubs. With a soil score of 21.9, your ground is rated higher than the state average, providing a great start for any gardener.
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
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does McCormick County have?
McCormick County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 54% sand, 29% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is McCormick County's soil acidic or alkaline?
McCormick 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 McCormick County?
McCormick 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 McCormick County's soil?
Based on McCormick County's Loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in McCormick County?
McCormick County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for McCormick 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.