Northumberland County Soil Data
Northumberland County, Virginia
Avg pH
4.9
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Northumberland County, Virginia
The Northern Neck's Acidic Base
This county has an average pH of 4.86, making it significantly more acidic than the state average of 5.23. Such low pH levels often require lime applications to make nutrients available for garden plants.
A Balanced Silt and Sand Mix
The soil composition is 52.5% sand and 33.6% silt, with a relatively low 13.9% clay. This mix provides good workability and moderate drainage for a variety of agricultural uses.
Strong Water Retention Potential
The available water capacity is 0.164 in/in, which is higher than the state average of 0.143. While organic matter at 2.11% is below the state average, the soil's ability to hold water is a major asset.
Moisture Management in the Neck
With a water capacity higher than the state average, this soil resists drought better than sandier neighbors. The 52.5% sand content ensures it doesn't stay waterlogged, facilitating healthy root growth.
Productive Zone 8a Growing
Northumberland’s climate and water-retentive soil are great for corn, soybeans, and backyard vegetables. Start your garden today to take advantage of the long 8a growing season.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Northumberland County have?
Northumberland County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 34% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Northumberland County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Northumberland 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 Northumberland County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Northumberland County.
What crops or plants grow well in Northumberland County's soil?
Based on Northumberland County's Sandy 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 Northumberland County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Northumberland County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Northumberland 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.