McNairy County Soil Data
McNairy County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in McNairy County, Tennessee
McNairy's acidic and sandy soil profile
McNairy County averages a pH of 5.24, which is slightly more acidic than the state average of 5.35 and well below the national median of 6.5. This contributes to a lower soil score of 29.6, indicating some challenges for intensive agricultural use.
Higher sand content aids soil workability
The soil composition includes 33.6% sand, one of the higher levels in the region, paired with 46.4% silt and 19.9% clay. This sand-heavy mix allows for easier digging and faster warming in the spring, though it may lose moisture more quickly.
Moderate water capacity with low organic matter
Organic matter content is 1.53%, trailing both the state average of 2.44% and the national average of 2.0%. Fortunately, the available water capacity of 0.171 in/in perfectly matches the state average, providing a decent buffer against short droughts.
Natural drainage through McNairy sands
While specific drainage class data is limited, the high sand percentage generally points toward better-than-average drainage for West Tennessee. Farmers should be aware that these soils may require more frequent fertilization, as nutrients can wash through sandy layers more easily.
Gardening success in Hardiness Zone 7b
In Zone 7b, McNairy's sandier soils are excellent for root vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots that prefer less resistance. Adding compost will help bridge the gap in organic matter and turn these sandy plots into highly productive gardens.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does McNairy County have?
McNairy County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 46% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is McNairy County's soil acidic or alkaline?
McNairy County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for McNairy County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for McNairy County.
What crops or plants grow well in McNairy County's soil?
Based on McNairy County's Loam texture, pH of 5.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in McNairy County?
The dominant USDA soil order for McNairy County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for McNairy 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.