Pickens County Soil Data
Pickens County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pickens County, South Carolina
Moderate acidity in the Upstate
Pickens County features a soil pH of 5.32, making it slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.27. It remains more acidic than the national median of 6.5, a typical characteristic for the South Carolina Piedmont.
A stable sand and silt mix
The soil contains 57.9% sand and 24.6% silt, along with 15.8% clay. This composition offers a stable structure that resists erosion better than the sandier soils found in the coastal plains.
Solid water capacity potential
The available water capacity of 0.123 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.115, providing good drought resistance. Organic matter is 1.19%, meaning there is plenty of room to improve fertility toward the state average of 2.05%.
Predicting drainage on the slopes
Drainage and hydrologic data are not specifically recorded for this county. Given the 57.9% sand and 15.8% clay mix, the soil likely offers moderate drainage that balances moisture retention with oxygen for roots.
Start your zone 8a garden
Hardiness zone 8a is an excellent climate for cool-season greens and hardy perennials. With its high water capacity, your soil provides a resilient foundation for a productive and beautiful home landscape.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pickens County have?
Pickens County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 58% sand, 25% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pickens County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pickens County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Pickens County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pickens County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pickens County's soil?
Based on Pickens County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.3, 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 Pickens County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pickens County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pickens 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.