Coffee County Soil Data
Coffee County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Gravelly silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Coffee County, Tennessee
Rare Mollisols in Coffee County
Coffee County is home to Mollisols, a rare and highly fertile soil order typically associated with grasslands. Its average pH of 5.37 is slightly more acidic than the state average and sits below the 6.5 national median.
Gravelly Silt Loam Structure
The soil is a complex blend of 49.8% silt, 27.4% sand, and 22.8% clay. This gravelly mix provides a unique structure that supports deep root penetration while maintaining enough clay to hold onto vital nutrients.
Steady Moisture Reservoirs
Organic matter stands at 1.83%, trailing the Tennessee average of 2.44% but still providing a decent biological base. The available water capacity of 0.172 in/in is almost exactly in line with the state average, ensuring reliable moisture.
Superior Water Infiltration
This soil is well drained and belongs to hydrologic group A, the highest rating for water infiltration. Such excellent drainage makes the land ideal for farming and reduces the risk of runoff or flooding during heavy storms.
High Performance in Zone 7b
Hardiness zone 7b provides the perfect backdrop for Coffee County’s productive Mollisols. Whether you are growing forage for livestock or a backyard vegetable patch, this soil is built for performance.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Gravelly silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Coffee County have?
Coffee County's soil is classified as Gravelly silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 50% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Coffee County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Coffee County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Coffee County?
Coffee 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 Coffee County's soil?
Based on Coffee County's Gravelly silt loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Coffee County?
Coffee County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Coffee 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.