Highland County Soil Data
Highland County, Virginia
Avg pH
4.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
7.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Highland County, Virginia
Intense acidity in the Highlands
Highland County soils are remarkably acidic, with a pH of 4.90 that sits well below the state average of 5.23. This is one of the more intense acidic profiles in the region compared to the national 6.5 median. Many mountain plants have adapted specifically to these low-pH conditions over time.
A smooth and silty texture
Highland has a high silt content of 38.6% paired with 36.5% sand and 16.2% clay. This silty mix offers a smooth texture that holds nutrients well but can be prone to compaction if worked while wet. It represents a shift away from the sandier soils found in the Virginia Tidewater.
Exceptional organic fertility
The fertility here is exceptional, with organic matter reaching 7.29%, far surpassing the state average of 2.90%. An available water capacity of 0.139 in/in nearly matches the state benchmark, signaling extremely high biological potential. This rich soil provides a fantastic natural foundation for local ecosystems.
Strong moisture retention
The combination of high silt and 16.2% clay suggests the soil retains moisture effectively, which is vital for the local mountain flora. These drainage characteristics support diverse plant life but require careful management for road and building stability. The soil stays moist longer than sandier varieties downstream.
Cool weather crops in zone 6a
Zone 6a brings cooler temperatures, making Highland perfect for crops like kale, apples, and potatoes. The rich 7.29% organic matter provides a fantastic natural foundation for any high-altitude garden. It is an ideal environment for those looking to grow hearty, cool-season produce.
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 Highland County have?
Highland County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 39% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Highland County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Highland County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Highland County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Highland County.
What crops or plants grow well in Highland County's soil?
Based on Highland County's Loam texture, pH of 4.9, 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 Highland County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Highland County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Highland 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.