Pulaski County Soil Data
Pulaski County, Virginia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
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 5.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pulaski County
Soil Verdict
Pulaski 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
Pulaski County closely matches the Virginia average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pulaski 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.