Shelby County Soil Data
Shelby County, Tennessee
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.9
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Shelby County, Tennessee
High-performing soils in West Tennessee
Shelby County boasts a soil score of 52.8, the highest in this group and well above the state average of 38.5. The pH of 5.87 is among the most balanced in the state, nearing the national median of 6.5.
Dominated by fine silt deposits
The soil is remarkably high in silt at 70.4%, with very low sand content at 11.6%. This fine-textured composition, common in the Mississippi Valley, creates a silty medium that is exceptional at holding nutrients but prone to packing tightly.
Unrivaled water storage capacity
The available water capacity is a staggering 0.202 in/in, far exceeding the state average of 0.171 in/in. While organic matter is low at 1.46%, the soil's ability to hold water makes it incredibly resilient during dry periods.
High capacity water management
The massive silt percentage indicates a soil that absorbs and stores water like a sponge. This high water capacity is a boon for agriculture, though it requires careful management in construction to ensure proper site drainage.
Subtropical potential in Zone 8a
As one of the few Tennessee counties in Zone 8a, Shelby offers a warmer environment for longer growing seasons. These silty, water-rich soils are perfect for high-demand crops like cotton, soybeans, or lush ornamental 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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Shelby County have?
Shelby County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 12% sand, 70% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Shelby County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Shelby County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Shelby County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Shelby County.
What crops or plants grow well in Shelby County's soil?
Based on Shelby County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.9, 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 Shelby County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Shelby County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Shelby County
Soil Verdict
Shelby County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°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
Shelby County is somewhat warmer than the Tennessee statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Shelby 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.