Gibson County Soil Data
Gibson County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Gibson County, Tennessee
Acidic Alfisols of the Western Plains
Gibson County is dominated by Alfisols, featuring a silt loam texture and an acidic pH of 5.29. This acidity is slightly higher than the state average of 5.35 and much sharper than the national median of 6.5. These soils often require regular monitoring and amendments to optimize nutrient availability for sensitive plants.
Heavy Silt Dominates the Soil Matrix
With a massive 75.0% silt content and only 8.8% sand, this soil is exceptionally smooth and fine-textured. The 16.2% clay content provides some structure, but the high silt levels make the soil prone to erosion and surface crusting. This mix offers excellent nutrient storage but demands careful management to prevent compaction.
Exceptional Water Storage Despite Low Carbon
Organic matter measures 1.49%, trailing significantly behind the Tennessee state average of 2.44%. However, the soil boasts a high available water capacity of 0.208 in/in, far exceeding the state average of 0.171. This unique combination means the soil holds onto moisture well, even though it needs more organic enrichment.
Managing Slow Drainage in Group D
Classified as somewhat poorly drained and part of hydrologic group D, these soils have a very slow rate of water transmission. This can lead to standing water during heavy Tennessee rains, which presents challenges for both farming and construction. Proper tiling or raised beds can help mitigate these drainage limitations for gardeners.
Abundant Harvests in Zone 7b
Zone 7b and moisture-retentive silt loam make Gibson County a powerhouse for crops like corn, soybeans, and cotton. Home gardeners can see great success with leafy greens and root vegetables that enjoy consistent moisture. Start a compost pile now to bridge the organic matter gap and watch your garden thrive.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Somewhat poorly drained
Water is removed slowly enough that the soil is wet at shallow depths for significant periods. Mottling present.
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 Gibson County have?
Gibson County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 9% sand, 75% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Gibson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Gibson 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 Gibson County?
Gibson County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat 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 Gibson County's soil?
Based on Gibson County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Somewhat 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 Gibson County?
Gibson 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 Gibson 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.