Weakley County Soil Data
Weakley County, Tennessee
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.3
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Weakley County, Tennessee
Weakley's Productive Silt-Rich Alfisols
Weakley County features Alfisols, which are generally more nutrient-rich than the more common Tennessee Ultisols. The soil has a pH of 5.27 and a dominant silt loam texture. While more acidic than the national median, these soils are highly valued for their agricultural potential in West Tennessee.
A Landscape Built on Silt
The soil is composed of a massive 70.8% silt, with very little sand at 14.4% and clay at 14.8%. This extreme silt concentration creates a smooth, almost velvety soil that is highly fertile but susceptible to erosion. It provides an ideal medium for root penetration and row crop production.
Top-Tier Water Retention Potential
Weakley boasts an impressive available water capacity of 0.200 in/in, far exceeding the state average of 0.171. This is offset by a low organic matter level of 1.42%, which is well below the national average. Despite the low organic stats, the incredible water storage makes these soils resilient during dry spells.
Managing Poorly Drained Silt
Classified as somewhat poorly drained and falling into hydrologic group D, these soils can become waterlogged easily. The high silt and low sand content prevent rapid drainage, leading to high runoff risks. Successful farming here often requires specialized drainage management or raised bed gardening.
West Tennessee's Agricultural Powerhouse
The 7b climate and high-moisture silt loams are perfect for soy, corn, and deep-rooted perennials. Because the soil drains slowly, it is a great candidate for raised garden beds that allow for better aeration. Start your garden today and tap into the high water-holding capacity of this unique West Tennessee soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Somewhat poorly drained
Water is removed slowly enough that the soil is wet at shallow depths for significant periods. Mottling present.
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 Weakley County have?
Weakley County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 14% sand, 71% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Weakley County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Weakley 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 Weakley County?
Weakley County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Weakley County's soil?
Based on Weakley County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Somewhat poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Weakley County?
Weakley County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Weakley County
Soil Verdict
Weakley 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
Weakley County closely matches the Tennessee average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Weakley 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.