Alexandria city Soil Data
Alexandria city, Virginia
Avg pH
5.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Alexandria city, Virginia
Acidic Urban Soil Foundations
Alexandria's soil reports a pH of 5.08, making it more acidic than the state average of 5.23 and the national median of 6.5. The overall soil score of 16.3 is among the lowest in the state, reflecting the challenges of urban land use and natural soil weathering. Despite these numbers, the soil remains a vital part of the city's green infrastructure.
Sandy Texture with Silt Accents
The soil is comprised of 51.7% sand, 31.2% silt, and 17.1% clay. This majority-sand composition provides decent aeration and helps prevent the heavy compaction often found in urban centers. The presence of 17.1% clay provides enough structure to hold onto essential minerals for landscaping.
Low Organic Matter in City Soil
Organic matter is sparse at 1.21%, which is significantly lower than the state average of 2.90% and the national 2.0% benchmark. Interestingly, the available water capacity is quite high at 0.149 in/in, surpassing the state average of 0.143. This means that while the soil lacks natural nutrients, it can hold onto applied water very effectively.
Manageable Drainage for Urban Lots
While specific drainage classes are not listed, the over 50% sand content suggests that rainwater infiltrates the ground relatively quickly. The clay content provides a buffer that prevents the soil from becoming a pure sieve, allowing for some moisture retention in garden beds. Homeowners should focus on adding organic amendments to improve the soil's natural biology.
Hardy Urban Greens in Zone 8a
Alexandria's 8a hardiness zone allows for a wide range of heat-tolerant plants and a long growing season. Native perennials and ornamental grasses thrive in these sandy, high-retention soils when supplemented with compost. Container gardening or raised beds are great ways to bypass the low natural organic matter found in the city.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Alexandria city have?
Alexandria city's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 31% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Alexandria city's soil acidic or alkaline?
Alexandria city's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Alexandria city?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Alexandria city.
What crops or plants grow well in Alexandria city's soil?
Based on Alexandria city's Loam texture, pH of 5.1, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Alexandria city?
The dominant USDA soil order for Alexandria city is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Alexandria city on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Virginia
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.