Wayne County Soil Data
Wayne County, Tennessee
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.3
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Wayne County, Tennessee
Wayne's Silty Ultisol Profile
Wayne County is dominated by highly weathered Ultisols with a silt loam texture and a pH of 5.28. This acidity level is nearly identical to the Tennessee average but remains well below the national median of 6.5. These soils represent the classic, aged woodland soils common to the Southern Highland Rim.
Silt-Heavy Composition for Soft Soil
A high silt content of 55.4% defines the soil's physical character, complemented by 24.2% sand and 20.3% clay. This creates a flour-like texture that feels soft to the touch and offers good workability. However, the high silt levels can make the surface prone to crusting after heavy rains.
High Water Capacity, Lower Organic Matter
Wayne County excels in moisture storage with an available water capacity of 0.176 in/in, surpassing the state average. Conversely, its organic matter of 1.68% is quite low compared to the state's 2.44% benchmark. This soil is excellent at holding onto hydration, even if it needs supplemental nitrogen.
Slow and Steady Drainage
The soil is moderately well drained but sits in hydrologic group C, indicating higher runoff potential during saturated conditions. The silty structure slows downward water movement compared to sandier soils nearby. Proper terracing or cover cropping can help manage water flow on sloped terrain.
Resilient Growing in Wayne County
The high water capacity in zone 7b helps your plants survive the hot Tennessee summers with less frequent watering. Corn and leafy vegetables do well here if you supplement the soil with compost to offset low organic matter. It is a great time to leverage that moisture-holding potential for a productive backyard plot.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Wayne County have?
Wayne County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 55% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Wayne County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Wayne County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Wayne County?
Wayne 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 Wayne County's soil?
Based on Wayne County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Moderately 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 Wayne County?
Wayne 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: Wayne County
Soil Verdict
Wayne 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
Wayne County closely matches the Tennessee average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Wayne 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.