Augusta County Soil Data
Augusta County, Virginia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Augusta County, Virginia
Acidic soils define Augusta's terrain
Augusta's soil is notably acidic with an average pH of 5.18, sitting well below the national median of 6.5. This pH level is slightly lower than the Virginia state average of 5.23, requiring lime adjustments for most traditional crops. While specific taxonomic data is limited for this area, the chemical profile suggests a landscape shaped by significant leaching.
A balanced mix of sand and silt
The county's soil features a nearly even split between sand at 37.5% and silt at 38.9%. With clay making up 17.8%, the texture offers a manageable workability that resists the heavy compaction found in clay-dense regions. This balance provides a sturdy structure that supports diverse mechanical farming operations.
Organic matter exceeds state benchmarks
Augusta boasts an organic matter content of 3.12%, outperforming the Virginia average of 2.90%. However, its available water capacity of 0.137 in/in trails the state average of 0.143, meaning the ground loses moisture faster than neighboring regions. This high organic content provides a strong foundation for nutrient cycling despite the lower water retention.
Moderately scored for agricultural stability
With an overall soil score of 31.8, Augusta ranks slightly above the state average of 30.6. While specific drainage classes are not currently mapped in this dataset, the sand-silt balance typically facilitates steady water movement. Builders and farmers should monitor localized runoff patterns given the slightly lower water holding capacity.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 7a
The combination of 3.12% organic matter and a 7a climate makes Augusta a prime spot for cool-weather vegetables and orchards. Apples and peaches thrive in this environment when soil pH is carefully managed. Gardeners should embrace the high organic content and start a backyard plot today.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Augusta County have?
Augusta County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 39% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Augusta County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Augusta County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Augusta County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Augusta County.
What crops or plants grow well in Augusta County's soil?
Based on Augusta County's Loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Augusta County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Augusta County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Augusta County
Soil Verdict
Augusta County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°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. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Augusta County closely matches the Virginia average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Augusta County 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.