Crockett County Soil Data
Crockett County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Crockett County, Tennessee
Acidic Alfisols define Crockett’s landscape
Crockett County features a silt loam texture and belongs to the Alfisols taxonomic order. Its average pH of 5.35 matches the Tennessee state average but sits significantly lower than the national median of 6.5.
Silky texture with high silt content
The soil is composed of 73.8% silt, 17.0% clay, and just 9.2% sand. This high silt percentage makes the ground easy to work and smooth, though it lacks the natural aeration provided by sandier mixes.
Superior water storage despite lower organic matter
The organic matter content of 1.45% trails the state average of 2.44%. However, the available water capacity of 0.207 in/in is much higher than the state average of 0.171, offering excellent drought resistance for crops.
Poor drainage presents management challenges
Classified as poorly drained and in hydrologic group C/D, this soil holds onto moisture for long periods. Farmers and builders must manage runoff carefully to prevent waterlogging and foundation issues.
Thriving in hardiness zone 7b
Crockett's climate and water-retaining silt loam are ideal for cotton and soybeans. Residents can find great success with a home vegetable garden by utilizing raised beds to manage the slow drainage.
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
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: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Crockett County have?
Crockett County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 9% sand, 74% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Crockett County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Crockett 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 Crockett County?
Crockett 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 Crockett County's soil?
Based on Crockett County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.4, 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 Crockett County?
Crockett County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Crockett 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.