Cheatham County Soil Data

Cheatham County, Tennessee

Avg pH

5.6

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

3.5%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Cheatham County, Tennessee

Middle Tennessee Soil Profile

While specific taxonomic data is limited, Cheatham County features an average pH of 5.57, which is slightly higher than the state average. This level remains more acidic than the 6.5 national median, typical for the region's wooded landscapes.

Dense Silty Mixtures

The soil is dominated by 58.8% silt and 20.1% clay, providing a dense but nutrient-rich medium for plant roots. With only 18.4% sand, this mix retains moisture well but requires careful management to avoid compaction.

Healthy Nutrient Foundations

Organic matter reaches a healthy 3.48%, comfortably beating the Tennessee average of 2.44%. The available water capacity of 0.177 in/in also sits just above the state mean, signaling high potential for consistent plant growth.

Strong Capability Score

While dominant drainage classes are not recorded here, the soil's high clay and silt content typically suggests moderate permeability. The county's impressive soil score of 53.0 reflects a landscape that supports both robust agriculture and vibrant local flora.

A Thriving Zone 7b Garden

Gardeners in hardiness zone 7b can enjoy a wide variety of vegetables and ornamental plants. The combination of high organic matter and good water retention makes this an excellent environment for a thriving backyard plot.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 18.4%
Silt: 58.8%
Clay: 20.1%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

5.6pH
5.56600302671775
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Cheatham County have?

Cheatham County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 59% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Cheatham County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Cheatham 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 Cheatham County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Cheatham County.

What crops or plants grow well in Cheatham County's soil?

Based on Cheatham 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 Cheatham County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Cheatham County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.