Carter County Soil Data
Carter County, Tennessee
Avg pH
4.4
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
6.5%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Carter County, Tennessee
Acidic Sandy Loams in Carter
Carter County's Entisols represent young, less developed soils with a notable fine sandy loam texture. The average pH of 4.37 is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, marking it as one of the state's more challenging environments.
Light Texture and Aeration
A balanced mix of 34.3% sand and 32.8% silt makes these soils physically workable, though the 13.1% clay content is relatively low. This composition allows for decent aeration but may struggle with structural stability under heavy use.
Impressive Organic Reserves
Despite a low water capacity of 0.126 in/in, the organic matter content is an impressive 6.47%, far surpassing the state average of 2.44%. This high organic load provides excellent nutrient potential if the acidity is managed properly.
Navigating Poor Drainage
These soils are poorly drained and fall into the B/D hydrologic group, suggesting frequent saturation and high runoff risk. Growers should prioritize raised beds or drainage improvements to prevent root rot in this wet environment.
Hardy Crops for Zone 7a
Located in hardiness zone 7a, Carter County supports hardy perennials and acid-loving shrubs like blueberries or rhododendrons. While the soil score is 30.0, the rich organic content offers a great starting point for dedicated gardeners.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
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: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Carter County have?
Carter County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 33% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Carter County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Carter County's soil has a low pH of 4.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Carter County?
Carter 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 Carter County's soil?
Based on Carter County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 4.4, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Carter County?
Carter County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
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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.