Sequatchie County Soil Data
Sequatchie County, Tennessee
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Sequatchie County, Tennessee
Acidic Ultisols of the Valley
Sequatchie County's soil is dominated by Ultisols, which are highly weathered and naturally acidic with an average pH of 5.04. This pH level is significantly lower than both the state average of 5.35 and the national median of 6.5.
True loam in the heart of Tennessee
The dominant texture is loam, composed of 39.6% sand, 41.8% silt, and 18.6% clay. This balanced mix offers superior workability and drainage, making it a favorite for farmers despite the overall soil score of 27.2.
Managing nutrient and water levels
The organic matter content is 1.84%, trailing the state average of 2.44%. With an available water capacity of 0.160 in/in, these soils may require supplemental irrigation and organic amendments to reach their full growing potential.
Excellent drainage for valley farms
Classified as well-drained and part of hydrologic group B, this soil moves water quickly and resists saturation. These characteristics are ideal for preventing root rot and providing a solid foundation for construction projects.
Ready for Zone 7b growth
In Hardiness Zone 7b, the loamy soil of Sequatchie County is perfect for root vegetables and orchard trees. Adding lime can help balance the high acidity, turning this well-drained loam into a highly productive garden.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Sequatchie County have?
Sequatchie County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 42% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Sequatchie County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Sequatchie County's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Sequatchie County?
Sequatchie 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 Sequatchie County's soil?
Based on Sequatchie County's Loam texture, pH of 5.0, 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 Sequatchie County?
Sequatchie 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Sequatchie County
Soil Verdict
Sequatchie 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
Sequatchie County closely matches the Tennessee average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Sequatchie 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.