Bedford County Soil Data
Bedford County, Tennessee
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Bedford County, Tennessee
Bedford’s High-pH Tennessee Soil
Bedford County records an average soil pH of 5.64, making it less acidic than the Tennessee average of 5.35. While still below the national 6.5 median, this profile offers a friendlier environment for a wide range of crops.
Silt-Heavy Foundation Supports Moisture
With 57.8% silt and 23.1% clay, this soil is exceptionally fine-textured and smooth. The low sand content of 17.0% means the ground holds onto water and nutrients tightly, though it may become compacted if worked while wet.
Consistent Water Storage for Agriculture
The organic matter content stands at 2.07%, trailing the state average of 2.44% but meeting national averages. A high available water capacity of 0.177 in/in ensures that crops have a steady reservoir of moisture during dry spells.
Awaiting Localized Drainage Data
Standardized drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently not recorded for this county's dominant soil types. Local farmers generally rely on traditional knowledge of the area's rolling limestone topography to manage runoff.
Gardening in the 7b Hardiness Zone
The 7b climate and silt-heavy soil favor hardy perennials and leafy greens. With a soil score of 45.9, Bedford outperforms the state average of 38.5, making it a prime spot for home cultivation.
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: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Bedford County have?
Bedford County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 58% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Bedford County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Bedford County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Bedford County?
Bedford 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 Bedford County's soil?
Based on Bedford County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 5.6, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Bedford County?
Bedford County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Bedford County
Soil Verdict
Bedford County is in USDA hardiness zone 7b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 5°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Bedford County closely matches the Tennessee average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bedford County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Tennessee
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.