DeKalb County Soil Data
DeKalb County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in DeKalb County, Tennessee
Superior drainage in DeKalb clay loam
DeKalb County’s dominant soil is a clay loam belonging to the Ultisols taxonomic order. Its pH of 5.43 is slightly less acidic than the state average but remains under the national 6.5 median.
Heavy clay for high nutrient storage
The composition features 22.2% clay and 56.9% silt, creating a heavy soil that holds nutrients very well. While 20.5% sand is present, the clay-heavy mix makes the ground firm and stable.
Matching the state’s water benchmarks
Organic matter sits at 2.01%, which is closer to the national average of 2.0% than the state average of 2.44%. The available water capacity is exactly 0.170 in/in, aligning perfectly with the Tennessee state average.
Excellent well-drained soil profile
DeKalb stands out with well-drained soil in hydrologic group B. This makes it highly desirable for construction and protects plant roots from rot during the wet seasons.
A garden-ready landscape in zone 7b
The well-drained nature of this soil is perfect for peppers, tomatoes, and deep-rooted perennials. Get outside and plant knowing your soil offers a high-performing natural drainage system.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does DeKalb County have?
DeKalb County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 21% sand, 57% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is DeKalb County's soil acidic or alkaline?
DeKalb 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 DeKalb County?
DeKalb 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 DeKalb County's soil?
Based on DeKalb County's Clay 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 DeKalb County?
DeKalb 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for DeKalb 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.