Jefferson County Soil Data
Jefferson County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Jefferson County, Tennessee
Jefferson’s Inceptisol foundations
Jefferson County features Inceptisols, which are relatively young soils with some degree of developmental weathering. The pH of 5.42 is slightly more alkaline than the state average but remains below the 6.5 national median.
Silt loam with a sandy touch
The dominant texture is silt loam, created by 49.9% silt, 27.4% sand, and 22.8% clay. This mix has more sand than neighboring counties, which can slightly improve drainage and aeration for root systems.
Lower water capacity and organics
Organic matter is lower than average at 1.62%, compared to the state's 2.44%. Additionally, the available water capacity of 0.166 in/in sits below the state average of 0.171, meaning these soils may dry out faster during August heat.
Moderately well-drained landscapes
The county's soil is moderately well-drained and falls into hydrologic group C. This classification implies a slow rate of water infiltration, making it important to manage runoff in sloped areas.
Garden prep in Zone 7b
Jefferson County's 7b zone is perfect for sweet potatoes and beans. Because the water capacity is slightly lower, mulching your garden beds is essential to keep moisture where your plants need it.
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 Jefferson County have?
Jefferson County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 50% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jefferson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jefferson 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 Jefferson County?
Jefferson 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 Jefferson County's soil?
Based on Jefferson County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.4, 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 Jefferson County?
Jefferson County's dominant soil order is Inceptisols. Inceptisols are young soils with weak horizon development. They occur in a wide range of climates and parent materials.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jefferson 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.