Bedford County Soil Data
Bedford County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.6
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
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
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Bedford County have?
Bedford County's soil is classified as Silt 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?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Bedford County.
What crops or plants grow well in Bedford County's soil?
Based on Bedford County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.6, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Bedford County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Bedford County is not currently available in our dataset.
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.