Staunton city Soil Data
Staunton city, Virginia
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Staunton city, Virginia
Balanced Urban Soils in Staunton
Staunton city holds a soil score of 30.8, placing it right at the state average of 30.6. The average pH of 5.30 is slightly better than the Virginia average but still more acidic than the national 6.5 median. This provides a stable, if slightly acidic, foundation for urban gardening and landscaping.
A Silty, Fine-Textured Base
With 47.0% silt and 22.1% clay, this soil has a finer texture than many coastal counties. Sand makes up only 23.1% of the mix, meaning the soil can hold onto nutrients effectively. However, the higher clay and silt content can make the ground prone to compaction in high-traffic city areas.
Good Water Storage, Lower Organic Matter
Organic matter is somewhat low at 1.94%, falling below the state average of 2.90%. However, the available water capacity is strong at 0.150 in/in, which is better than the state benchmark. This means the soil is excellent at storing water for plants even if it lacks some organic richness.
Water Movement in the City
Specific hydrologic groups are not recorded, but the high silt content suggests the soil can be slow to drain when saturated. Urban gardeners should be mindful of drainage patterns around buildings and paved surfaces. Using raised beds can help manage moisture in these silt-heavy soils.
Growing Green in Staunton
Staunton's strong water capacity makes it an excellent place for thirsty landscape plants and shrubs. Adding compost will help improve the 1.94% organic matter and break up the silty texture. Turn your backyard into a lush oasis by taking advantage of these reliable soil traits.
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 Staunton city have?
Staunton city's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 47% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Staunton city's soil acidic or alkaline?
Staunton city'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 Staunton city?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Staunton city.
What crops or plants grow well in Staunton city's soil?
Based on Staunton city'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 Staunton city?
The dominant USDA soil order for Staunton city is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Staunton 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.