Pulaski County Soil Data

Pulaski County, Virginia

Avg pH

5.3

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

4.4%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Pulaski County, Virginia

Top-Tier Soils in the New River Valley

Pulaski County boasts a soil score of 45.1, significantly higher than the Virginia state average of 30.6. The pH level of 5.33 remains acidic compared to the 6.5 national median but is healthy for the region.

A Silty Mix Built for Productivity

This soil features a balanced mix of 34.2% sand and 42.1% silt. The high silt content provides a smooth, productive texture that retains nutrients far better than the sandier counties to the east.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

The organic matter reaches an impressive 4.38%, far exceeding the state average of 2.90%. Available water capacity stands at 0.157 in/in, providing a massive reservoir for plants during the dry summer months.

Deep Retention Supports Thriving Crops

Though specific hydrologic groups are not listed, the significant silt and clay components suggest steady, reliable water retention. This composition supports consistent moisture levels for deep-rooted forage and specialty crops.

High-Yield Potential in Zone 7a

Hardiness Zone 7a is perfect for cool-season greens, apples, and hardy perennials. The rich organic content makes this some of the most naturally productive ground in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 34.2%
Silt: 42.1%
Clay: 19.0%
Loam

Soil pH

5.3pH
5.33401349407022
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Pulaski County have?

Pulaski County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 42% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Pulaski County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Pulaski County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.

What is the drainage class for Pulaski County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Pulaski County.

What crops or plants grow well in Pulaski County's soil?

Based on Pulaski County's Loam texture, pH of 5.3, 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 Pulaski County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Pulaski County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.