Houston County Soil Data
Houston County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Houston County, Tennessee
The Ultisols of Houston County
Houston County is dominated by Ultisols, which are highly weathered forest soils common across the American South. The average pH of 5.31 is nearly identical to the state average but remains significantly more acidic than the national 6.5 median.
Silt loam provides easy workability
The dominant silt loam texture comes from a blend of 57.4% silt, 20.0% clay, and 19.1% sand. This composition offers a balanced structure that is easier to plow than heavy clay while retaining more nutrients than sandy soils.
Strong water retention despite lower organics
Organic matter levels reach 1.80%, which is lower than the Tennessee average of 2.44%. Despite this, the soil maintains an available water capacity of 0.174 in/in, providing better-than-average hydration for local crops.
Moderately well-drained silt lands
These soils are classified as moderately well-drained and belong to hydrologic group C. This means they have a slow rate of water transmission, which is suitable for many crops but may require drainage solutions for construction.
Abundant options for Zone 7b
Houston County's climate and soil are perfect for timber, pasture, and acid-loving berries. With a little compost to boost organic matter, you can easily establish a productive backyard orchard.
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 Houston County have?
Houston County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 57% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Houston County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Houston 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 Houston County?
Houston 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 Houston County's soil?
Based on Houston 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 Houston County?
Houston 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 Houston 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.