Cheatham County Soil Data
Cheatham County, Tennessee
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
3.5%
Hydrologic Group
C
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
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
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 Cheatham County have?
Cheatham County's soil is classified as Silty clay 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?
Cheatham County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Cheatham County's soil?
Based on Cheatham County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 5.6, and Moderately well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Cheatham County?
Cheatham County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Cheatham County
Soil Verdict
Cheatham 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
Cheatham County closely matches the Tennessee average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 7a-7b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cheatham 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.