Louisa County Soil Data
Louisa County, Virginia
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Louisa County, Virginia
Balanced Acidity in Louisa
Louisa County averages a pH of 5.36, placing it slightly above the state baseline of 5.23 but below the national 6.5 median. This level of acidity is common for the region and manageable for most local agriculture.
Well-Balanced Loamy Textures
The soil is a balanced mix featuring 46.2% sand and 33.6% silt, which offers a good compromise between drainage and stability. This texture is generally easier to work than clay-heavy soils found further west.
Above Average Soil Fertility
At 3.02%, the organic matter content is slightly higher than the state average of 2.90%. This indicates a healthy level of decomposed material that supports local nutrient cycling and plant vigor.
Reliable Moisture Levels
A water capacity of 0.148 in/in is just above the Virginia state average of 0.143. This provides a reliable moisture cushion for crops, though the moderate sand content ensures it doesn't stay waterlogged for too long.
Solid Production in Zone 7a
The county's soil score of 38.8 and zone 7a climate create a solid foundation for berries and mid-season vegetables. It is a great location to start a home orchard or a diverse kitchen garden.
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 Louisa County have?
Louisa County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 34% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Louisa County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Louisa 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 Louisa County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Louisa County.
What crops or plants grow well in Louisa County's soil?
Based on Louisa 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 Louisa County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Louisa County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Louisa 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.