Montgomery County Soil Data
Montgomery County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.8
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
2.2%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Montgomery County, Tennessee
Top-tier soil health on the Highland Rim
Montgomery County boasts an impressive soil score of 55.5, the highest in this group and far above the Tennessee average of 38.5. These Ultisols have an average pH of 5.80, which is significantly better for plant growth than the state average of 5.35.
Silt-rich soils offer premium workability
The dominant texture is silt loam, featuring a high silt content of 63.3% and only 17.0% sand. This composition creates a smooth, floury soil that is easy to till and excellent at holding the nutrients necessary for intensive farming.
Excellent water capacity for thirsty crops
Montgomery's available water capacity of 0.192 in/in is among the best in the state, comfortably beating the 0.171 benchmark. While organic matter at 2.22% is slightly below the state average, the high water retention makes these soils very resilient.
Managing water in hydrologic group C
The soils are moderately well drained, though they belong to hydrologic group C, which can limit water movement during heavy storms. This suggests a soil that stays productive during dry spells but requires good management to prevent surface runoff.
The gold standard for Zone 7b gardens
The high soil score and water capacity in Montgomery make it one of Tennessee's best places for gardening and farming in Zone 7b. Whether you are growing dark tobacco or fresh tomatoes, these silt loams provide a nearly ideal environment for success.
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 Montgomery County have?
Montgomery County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 63% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Montgomery County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Montgomery County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Montgomery County?
Montgomery 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 Montgomery County's soil?
Based on Montgomery County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.8, and Moderately 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 Montgomery County?
Montgomery 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 Montgomery 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.