Richland County Soil Data
Richland County, South Carolina
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.8%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Richland County, South Carolina
High-quality acidic Ultisols
Richland County features acidic Ultisols with a pH of 5.44, which is notably higher than the state average of 5.27. While it still sits below the national median of 6.5, this pH is favorable for many southern regional crops.
Classic sandy loam texture
The soil is classified as a Sandy Loam, containing 61.4% sand, 24.9% silt, and 11.8% clay. This specific blend is highly prized by gardeners for being easy to work while still holding essential moisture.
Rich organic matter scores
Organic matter is a impressive 2.82%, far exceeding the state average of 2.05% and the national average of 2.0%. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.119 in/in, this soil is built for high productivity.
Well-drained and garden-ready
Richland soils are classified as well-drained and belong to hydrologic group C. This ensures that root systems stay aerated while the soil maintains enough moisture to support steady growth throughout the season.
A gardener's dream in zone 8b
Zone 8b offers a long, productive season for everything from tomatoes to citrus. With a superior soil score of 31.8—the highest among its neighbors—Richland County is the perfect place to start a garden.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Richland County have?
Richland County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 61% sand, 25% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Richland County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Richland County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Richland County?
Richland County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Richland County's soil?
Based on Richland County's Sandy loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Richland County?
Richland 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 Richland 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.