Craig County Soil Data
Craig County, Virginia
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
5.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Craig County, Virginia
Rich, Acidic Highlands of Craig
Craig County features a soil pH of 5.15, which is more acidic than both the state average and the 6.5 national median. Despite this acidity, the county boasts an impressive soil score of 40.6, well above the Virginia average of 30.6.
A Versatile Silt and Sand Mix
The soil composition is 40.8% silt and 35.6% sand, providing a fine-textured earth that is relatively easy to till. With 16.6% clay, the soil strikes a balance between drainage speed and the ability to hold onto plant nutrients.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
At 5.60%, the organic matter in Craig County is nearly double the state average of 2.90% and far exceeds the national 2.0% average. This high fertility is paired with a strong available water capacity of 0.147 in/in.
Reliable Water Movement and Stability
Though formal hydrologic groups are unlisted, the high organic content and balanced silt levels suggest resilient soil structure. These traits help prevent erosion while maintaining moisture for the county’s lush mountain forests.
Mountain Harvests in Zone 7a
Zone 7a combined with elite organic matter makes this a gardener's paradise for root vegetables and berries. Adding a bit of lime will help balance the acidity and unlock the soil's full biological potential.
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 Craig County have?
Craig County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 41% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Craig County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Craig 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 Craig County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Craig County.
What crops or plants grow well in Craig County's soil?
Based on Craig 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 Craig County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Craig County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Craig 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.