Prince Edward County Soil Data
Prince Edward County, Virginia
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Prince Edward County, Virginia
Balanced Acidity in Central Virginia
The soil in Prince Edward County has a pH of 5.43, which is more alkaline than the state average but remains below the 6.5 national median. This reflects the typical geochemical signature of the Virginia heartland.
A Versatile Mix for Farming
A blend of 55.2% sand and 16.2% clay defines the local landscape. This ratio provides a decent balance of physical workability and the structural stability required for traditional agriculture.
Consistent Water Storage for Crops
Organic matter measures 1.33%, while the available water capacity of 0.142 in/in matches the Virginia state average. This provides a more resilient foundation for plant growth compared to the sandier coastal counties.
Stable Hydrology for Field Crops
The absence of specific hydrologic group data is offset by the balanced water capacity metrics. The soil generally holds enough moisture to sustain crops through short dry spells without becoming excessively swampy.
Long Growing Season in Zone 7b
Gardeners in Zone 7b can enjoy a long season for southern favorites like corn, beans, and squash. This soil responds quickly to organic amendments, which help bridge the gap to higher productivity levels.
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 Prince Edward County have?
Prince Edward County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 55% sand, 29% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Prince Edward County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Prince Edward 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 Prince Edward County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Prince Edward County.
What crops or plants grow well in Prince Edward County's soil?
Based on Prince Edward County's Sandy 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 Prince Edward County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Prince Edward County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Prince Edward 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.