Rutherford County Soil Data
Rutherford County, Tennessee
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.8
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Rutherford County, Tennessee
Strong soil scores in Rutherford
Rutherford County earns a soil score of 46.6, placing it well above the state average of 38.5. The average pH of 5.78 is relatively high for Tennessee, providing a more hospitable environment for diverse plant life than the state average of 5.35.
High silt content drives texture
With 56.4% silt and 25.1% clay, this soil leans toward a heavier texture that retains nutrients effectively. The low sand content of 17.0% means the soil is less prone to rapid leaching but may require careful management to avoid compaction.
Solid water retention potential
The available water capacity is 0.173 in/in, slightly exceeding the state benchmark and providing a safety net during Tennessee summers. Organic matter levels at 1.96% are nearly identical to the national average of 2.0%.
Consistent moisture for the landscape
The high silt and clay ratios suggest a soil that holds onto moisture longer than sandy neighbors. Growers should plan for steady drainage and monitor soil moisture to ensure roots remain healthy in this dense medium.
Diverse opportunities in Zone 7b
The mild winters of Zone 7b allow for a versatile range of landscaping and food crops. This soil is particularly well-suited for deciduous fruit trees and hardy shrubs that enjoy consistent moisture and nutrient-rich clays.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Rutherford County have?
Rutherford County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 56% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Rutherford County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Rutherford 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 Rutherford County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Rutherford County.
What crops or plants grow well in Rutherford County's soil?
Based on Rutherford County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.8, 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 Rutherford County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Rutherford County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Rutherford County
Soil Verdict
Rutherford County is in USDA hardiness zone 7b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 5°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Rutherford County closely matches the Tennessee average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Rutherford 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.