Suffolk city Soil Data
Suffolk city, Virginia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.0
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Suffolk city, Virginia
Acidic and Sandy Coastal Soils
Suffolk city soil is notably acidic with a pH of 5.03, falling below the state average of 5.23. The soil score of 28.7 is slightly lower than the Virginia average of 30.6. These conditions reflect the city's coastal geography and the presence of specialized ecosystems like the Great Dismal Swamp.
A Very Sandy Foundation
Sand makes up 65.0% of the soil, while silt and clay account for 19.3% and 10.7% respectively. This high sand content provides excellent drainage and makes the soil very easy to work with a shovel. However, it lacks the structural stability that higher clay concentrations provide.
Rich Organic Matter in the Lowlands
Suffolk boasts an impressive 4.42% organic matter, nearly double the state average. Despite this richness, the available water capacity is low at 0.119 in/in due to the high sand content. This means while the soil is full of nutrients, it doesn't hold onto water very long.
Fast Drainage for Coastal Living
The 65% sand content ensures that water moves through the soil quickly, a common trait in this part of Virginia. While specific hydrologic data is missing, this usually means fewer issues with standing water after a storm. Building in these areas requires accounting for the sandy, non-cohesive nature of the ground.
Gardening in Warm Zone 8a
Zone 8a offers a long, warm growing season that is unique in Virginia. The high organic matter of 4.42% provides a fantastic start for heat-loving crops like peppers and melons. Keep your hose handy to compensate for the low water capacity, and you will see amazing results.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Suffolk city have?
Suffolk city's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 65% sand, 19% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Suffolk city's soil acidic or alkaline?
Suffolk city's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Suffolk city?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Suffolk city.
What crops or plants grow well in Suffolk city's soil?
Based on Suffolk city's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.0, 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 Suffolk city?
The dominant USDA soil order for Suffolk city is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Suffolk city
Soil Verdict
Suffolk city is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°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. 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.
Regional Context
Suffolk city is somewhat warmer than the Virginia statewide average. The zone range of 8a-8b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Suffolk 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.