Orangeburg County Soil Data
Orangeburg County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.1
Texture
Loamy Sand
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Orangeburg County, South Carolina
Acidic soil of the inner plain
Orangeburg County soil is acidic with a pH of 5.15, which is lower than the South Carolina average of 5.27. This level is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, making it ideal for acid-loving shrubs.
Highly sandy soil texture
The soil is dominated by 80.1% sand, with only 11.5% silt and 8.4% clay. This extreme sandiness means the soil is exceptionally easy to dig but will require extra organic matter to improve its nutrient-holding capacity.
Meeting the moisture challenge
Available water capacity is low at 0.088 in/in, falling below the state average of 0.115. Organic matter sits at 1.72%, which also trails the state average of 2.05%, contributing to a lower overall soil score of 14.0.
Managing fast-draining ground
While official drainage classes are not provided, the 80.1% sand content indicates very rapid drainage. Heavy rain will likely soak in quickly, but nutrients can also wash away just as fast without proper management.
Growing strong in zone 8b
Hardiness zone 8b allows for a long season of heat-loving crops like watermelons and peppers. Adding mulch and compost will help your garden overcome the low water capacity and produce a bountiful harvest.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Orangeburg County have?
Orangeburg County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 80% sand, 11% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Orangeburg County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Orangeburg 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 Orangeburg County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Orangeburg County.
What crops or plants grow well in Orangeburg County's soil?
Based on Orangeburg 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 Orangeburg County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Orangeburg County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Orangeburg 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.