Lauderdale County Soil Data
Lauderdale County, Tennessee
Avg pH
6.0
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Lauderdale County, Tennessee
A Superior Soil Score for Lauderdale
Lauderdale County boasts a soil score of 55.6, far exceeding the state average of 38.5. The soil pH of 6.00 is significantly more balanced than the Tennessee average of 5.35, though it remains slightly below the national 6.5 median.
Silt-Heavy Soils with Fine Texture
The soil composition is dominated by 65.8% silt and 22.2% clay, creating a smooth but heavy texture. With only 12.0% sand, these fields offer excellent mineral retention but require careful management to prevent surface compaction.
Excellent Water Storage for Crop Resilience
The Available Water Capacity of 0.197 in/in is one of the highest in the state, providing a deep reservoir for thirsty plants. However, organic matter remains low at 1.66%, trailing both the state average and the 2.0% national benchmark.
Managing Dense and Silty Landscapes
While specific drainage classes are not documented for this county, the high silt content typically dictates slow moisture movement. Local producers must monitor soil moisture closely to ensure roots have access to necessary oxygen in these dense profiles.
Thriving in the Warmth of Zone 8a
As one of Tennessee's few Zone 8a regions, Lauderdale offers a longer growing season for heat-loving crops like cotton and peppers. These silty soils provide a stable, water-rich environment that supports a highly productive agricultural landscape.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
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 Lauderdale County have?
Lauderdale County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 12% sand, 66% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lauderdale County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lauderdale County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Lauderdale County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Lauderdale County.
What crops or plants grow well in Lauderdale County's soil?
Based on Lauderdale County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.0, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Lauderdale County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Lauderdale County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lauderdale 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.