Richmond city Soil Data
Richmond city, Virginia
Avg pH
5.1
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Richmond city, Virginia
Urban Soils with High Acidity
Richmond City features an average soil pH of 5.13, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This level is typical for the region but remains below the state average of 5.23. Without taxonomic classification data, the low pH serves as the primary indicator for soil management needs.
High Sand and Fast Drainage
The city’s soil is dominated by sand at 63.5%, with only 13.3% clay and 22.9% silt. This high sand content ensures excellent drainage but may lead to rapid nutrient leaching in urban garden beds. The low clay percentage makes the soil very easy to work, though it lacks the 'grip' of heavier soils.
Challenging Nutrient Retention
Organic matter in the city is relatively low at 1.65%, falling below both the national 2.0% and state 2.90% averages. The available water capacity of 0.122 in/in is also lower than the state average of 0.143 in/in. Gardeners should expect to supplement these soils with compost to improve both fertility and water holding capacity.
Infiltration and Urban Runoff
While specific drainage classes are not provided, the 63.5% sand content points toward rapid infiltration. In an urban environment, this can help reduce surface runoff during moderate rains. However, the lack of data on hydrologic groups means site-specific drainage should be verified for construction.
Flourishing in Zone 7b
Richmond's 7b hardiness zone allows for a long growing season and success with heat-tolerant varieties. Southern favorites like figs and crape myrtles thrive in these sandy, well-draining conditions. Regular mulching is essential here to keep soil temperatures stable and preserve what little moisture the sandy soil holds.
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 Richmond city have?
Richmond city's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 64% sand, 23% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Richmond city's soil acidic or alkaline?
Richmond city'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 Richmond city?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Richmond city.
What crops or plants grow well in Richmond city's soil?
Based on Richmond city's Sandy 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 Richmond city?
The dominant USDA soil order for Richmond city is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Richmond city 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.