Macon County Soil Data
Macon County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.6
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Macon County, Tennessee
Superior pH in Macon's Ultisols
Macon County features a pH of 5.60, which is notably less acidic than the Tennessee average of 5.35. While it still falls short of the national 6.5 median, this acidity level provides a more versatile environment for most garden plants.
Silt Loam with Perfect Texture
The silt loam texture is created by a mix of 59.6% silt, 20.9% clay, and 19.4% sand. This composition offers the best of both worlds: excellent mineral retention from the silt and clay, with enough sand to allow roots to breathe.
Strong Organic Matter Content
Macon's organic matter level of 2.06% beats the national average, though it trails the 2.44% state benchmark. The Available Water Capacity of 0.167 in/in is slightly below the state average, so summer mulching is recommended to keep roots cool.
Moderate Infiltration and Steady Drainage
Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group B, these soils absorb rainfall at a steady, moderate pace. This keeps the soil moist enough for crops without the risk of long-term saturated conditions that cause disease.
Berries and Greens in Zone 7b
Macon’s Hardiness Zone 7b and silt loam soils are perfect for high-value crops like berries and leafy greens. With such a solid soil foundation, any home gardener can expect a bounty with just a little organic supplementation.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
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 Macon County have?
Macon County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 60% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Macon County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Macon County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Macon County?
Macon 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 Macon County's soil?
Based on Macon County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.6, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Macon County?
Macon 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 Macon 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.