Madison County Soil Data
Madison County, Virginia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Madison County, Virginia
Highly Acidic Mountain Soils
Madison County soil is notably acidic with an average pH of 5.15, well below the national median of 6.5. This acidity is slightly lower than the Virginia state average of 5.23, reflecting the local mineral composition.
A Balanced Silt and Sand Mix
The soil contains a balanced blend of 42.8% sand and 37.0% silt, creating a texture that is generally easy to work. With 17.4% clay, the soil maintains enough structure to hold nutrients without becoming excessively heavy or compacted.
Strong Water Retention Despite Low Organic Matter
Organic matter levels sit at 1.71%, which is below the 2.90% state average. However, the available water capacity of 0.151 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.143, helping crops withstand short dry spells.
Naturally Permeable and Fast-Draining
While specific drainage classes are not recorded, the high sand and silt content suggest efficient permeability. This allows water to move through the soil profile quickly, which is beneficial for preventing root rot in wet weather.
Ideal for Hardy Fruits and Vegetables
Madison County's Hardiness Zone 7a supports a wide range of fruit trees and cool-weather crops. Adding lime and organic compost can neutralize the acidity and unlock the full potential of your 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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Madison County have?
Madison County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 43% sand, 37% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Madison County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Madison County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Madison County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Madison County.
What crops or plants grow well in Madison County's soil?
Based on Madison County's Loam texture, pH of 5.1, 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 Madison County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Madison County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Madison County
Soil Verdict
Madison 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
Madison 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 Madison 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.