Fayette County Soil Data
Fayette County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Fayette County, Tennessee
Silky Alfisols of Southwest Tennessee
Fayette County is defined by its silt loam texture and Alfisols taxonomic order. The pH of 5.28 is slightly more acidic than the state average of 5.35 and well below the national 6.5 median.
High silt levels provide a soft texture
This soil is 65.9% silt and 16.4% clay, giving it a very smooth, flour-like feel. With 17.7% sand, it maintains a good structural balance for various types of vegetation.
Elite water storage capacity
The available water capacity is a remarkable 0.208 in/in, significantly higher than the 0.171 state average. Organic matter is 1.36%, suggesting that adding compost could further enhance these already thirsty soils.
Moderate drainage in hydrologic group C
The soil is moderately well drained, meaning it holds onto moisture but eventually lets it pass through. It provides a reliable moisture source for plants while staying stable enough for construction.
Extended growing season in zone 8a
Fayette's warmer climate and high water storage are perfect for heat-loving crops like okra and sweet potatoes. Take advantage of the long growing season to start a productive 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: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Fayette County have?
Fayette County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 66% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Fayette County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Fayette County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Fayette County?
Fayette 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 Fayette County's soil?
Based on Fayette County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Moderately 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 Fayette County?
Fayette 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 Fayette 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.