Marion County Soil Data
Marion County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Gravelly silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Marion County, Tennessee
Sandy Inceptisols of the Plateau
Marion County features Inceptisols with a pH of 5.26, trailing slightly behind the 5.35 Tennessee average. These soils are significantly more acidic than the 6.5 national median, reflecting their placement in a highly weathered environment.
Unique Gravelly Silt Loams
Unlike its neighbors, Marion’s soil is quite sandy at 38.2%, creating a gravelly silt loam texture. This is balanced by 40.0% silt and 21.3% clay, providing a medium that drains much faster than most Tennessee soils.
Low Moisture and Organic Levels
The Available Water Capacity is just 0.152 in/in, the lowest in this group, meaning crops may dry out quickly. Organic matter is also low at 1.73%, so frequent amendments are necessary to sustain healthy plant growth.
Fast-Moving Waters in Group A
Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group A, these soils have a high infiltration rate. While this prevents flooding, it also means nutrients can leach away quickly if not managed with slow-release fertilizers.
Drought-Tolerant Gardening in Zone 7b
The fast-draining soils of Zone 7b in Marion are perfect for Mediterranean herbs, lavender, and stone fruits. Choose plants that enjoy 'dry feet' and you will find that these unique soils are incredibly rewarding for the right cultivars.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Gravelly silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Marion County have?
Marion County's soil is classified as Gravelly silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 38% sand, 40% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Marion County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Marion 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 Marion County?
Marion 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 Marion County's soil?
Based on Marion County's Gravelly silt loam texture, pH of 5.3, 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 Marion County?
Marion 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 Marion 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.