Hardin County Soil Data
Hardin County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Hardin County, Tennessee
Silt Loams and Acidic Ultisols
Hardin County features Ultisols with a pH of 5.23, which is more acidic than the 6.5 national median. The dominant texture is a silt loam, reflecting the county's river-influenced geology.
A Classic Silt Loam Balance
The composition consists of 46.8% silt and 30.9% sand, with clay making up 21.7%. This mixture provides excellent workability and enough clay to help retain essential minerals for plant growth.
Strong Water Retention Potential
The available water capacity of 0.174 in/in is higher than the Tennessee state average of 0.171. However, organic matter is relatively low at 1.33%, indicating a need for regular mulching and composting.
Well Drained with Moderate Infiltration
The soil is classified as well-drained but falls into hydrologic group C. This combination means that while the soil profile clears water well, surface runoff can occur during intense rainfall.
Productive Seasons in Zone 7b
In hardiness zone 7b, the silt loam soil supports robust yields for tomatoes, peppers, and various fruit trees. With a soil score of 27.4, your garden will thrive with some simple pH adjustments.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Hardin County have?
Hardin County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 47% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hardin County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hardin County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Hardin County?
Hardin 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 Hardin County's soil?
Based on Hardin County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Hardin County?
Hardin 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 Hardin 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.