Rockbridge County Soil Data
Rockbridge County, Virginia
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Rockbridge County, Virginia
Classic Appalachian Acidity
Rockbridge County features an average soil pH of 5.29, which sits just above the Virginia state average of 5.23. It remains significantly lower than the national median of 6.5, following the regional trend for acidic valley soils. This pH level supports many native hardwood forests but requires monitoring for agriculture.
Silty and Smooth Texture
The soil composition is 45.5% sand, 37.9% silt, and 16.6% clay. This texture is known for being relatively smooth and easy to till compared to heavier clay soils found eastward. The moderate clay content provides enough structure to prevent the soil from washing away too easily.
Exceptional Water Capacity
Rockbridge boasts an available water capacity of 0.157 in/in, well above the state average of 0.143 in/in. Organic matter is slightly lower at 1.90%, just under the 2.0% national benchmark. This high water storage makes the soil very resilient against short-term droughts.
Efficient Water Management
While drainage class data is missing, the physical mix of sand and silt typically allows for efficient water movement. This is critical in the county's rolling terrain to prevent excessive runoff and erosion. Proper land management can leverage these traits for sustainable grazing or farming.
Hardy Growth in Zone 7a
The 7a hardiness zone is perfect for growing cool-season grasses and a variety of hardy vegetables. With superior water retention, your plants will be better protected during the heat of July. Adding compost will help bring that 1.90% organic matter up to even more productive 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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Rockbridge County have?
Rockbridge County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 38% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Rockbridge County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Rockbridge 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 Rockbridge County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Rockbridge County.
What crops or plants grow well in Rockbridge County's soil?
Based on Rockbridge 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 Rockbridge County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Rockbridge County is not currently available in our dataset.
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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.