Floyd County Soil Data
Floyd County, Virginia
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Floyd County, Virginia
High-Quality Highlands Soil Profile
Floyd County boasts a soil score of 46.0, well above the state average of 30.6. Its average pH of 5.40 is slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.23, though still below the national 6.5 median. This county represents some of the most robust soil characteristics in the region.
Sand-Dominant and Easily Worked
The soil is 46.5% sand, the highest sand percentage among these neighboring counties, paired with 38.6% silt and 15.0% clay. This high sand content provides excellent aeration and makes the soil exceptionally easy to work. It resists the heavy, sticky feel common in high-clay Virginia soils.
Rich Organic Matter and Water Retention
Floyd County shines with an organic matter content of 3.31%, surpassing both the state average of 2.90% and the national average of 2.0%. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.167 in/in, this soil is highly fertile. It offers a nutrient-rich and moisture-stable environment for any crop.
Predicting Flow in the Blue Ridge
While specific drainage and hydrologic group data are not listed, the high sand content suggests naturally rapid drainage. This is beneficial for mountain gardening where slopes can lead to erosion if water is not managed. The rich organic matter helps stabilize this sandier structure against runoff.
Ideal Conditions for Zone 7a
Located in hardiness zone 7a, Floyd County is famous for its productive farms and gardens. The high organic matter and sand-rich texture are perfect for specialty crops like potatoes and high-quality berries. Your soil is among the best in the state, so start planting with confidence.
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 Floyd County have?
Floyd County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 39% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Floyd County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Floyd County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Floyd County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Floyd County.
What crops or plants grow well in Floyd County's soil?
Based on Floyd County's Loam texture, pH of 5.4, 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 Floyd County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Floyd County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Floyd 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.