Cannon County Soil Data
Cannon County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.6
Texture
Flaggy clay
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Cannon County, Tennessee
Cannon’s Inceptisols and pH Profile
Cannon County is home to Inceptisols, specifically a flaggy clay texture that gives the soil a unique structure. The average pH of 5.60 is notably higher than the state average of 5.35, though still below the national 6.5 median.
A Silty and Substantial Mix
The soil contains 56.6% silt and 23.5% clay, making it heavy and capable of holding significant nutrients. Sand makes up only 19.9% of the profile, which can result in slower drainage during heavy rains.
Strong Soil Score for Local Farming
With a soil score of 43.8, Cannon County outperforms the state average of 38.5. Organic matter sits at 2.10%, and the available water capacity of 0.170 in/in is nearly identical to the Tennessee benchmark.
Well Drained with Slow Infiltration
The land is classified as well drained, yet it belongs to Hydrologic Group D. This combination means that while the surface may appear dry, the soil transmits water very slowly, increasing the risk of runoff.
Flourishing in Zone 7b
The high silt content and favorable soil score make Cannon County an excellent place for Zone 7b agriculture. From orchards to vegetable plots, the land is ready to support a diverse and productive garden.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Flaggy clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cannon County have?
Cannon County's soil is classified as Flaggy clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 57% silt, and 24% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Cannon County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cannon 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 Cannon County?
Cannon 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 Cannon County's soil?
Based on Cannon County's Flaggy clay texture, pH of 5.6, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, wetland plants and crops tolerant of slow drainage, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Cannon County?
Cannon County's dominant soil order is Inceptisols. Inceptisols are young soils with weak horizon development. They occur in a wide range of climates and parent materials.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cannon 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.