Tazewell County Soil Data
Tazewell County, Virginia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
5.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Tazewell County, Virginia
Strong Soils in the Mountains
Tazewell County earns a high soil score of 42.6, driven by a stable pH of 5.31. While still below the national median of 6.5, this acidity is well-suited for the region's diverse forest and pasture lands.
A Silty Mountain Blend
The soil is comprised of 42.0% silt and 34.8% sand, providing a balanced texture for many uses. With 17.9% clay, the soil retains nutrients better than sandier coastal neighbors while remaining workable.
Exceptional Organic Richness
Tazewell boasts a remarkable 5.09% organic matter content, nearly double the state average of 2.90%. This high fertility, combined with a water capacity of 0.145 in/in, creates a powerful growing environment.
Hydrology in High Elevations
While specific drainage classes are not currently logged, the high organic matter suggests good structure and water absorption. Farmers in this area benefit from soil that resists drought better than most.
Cool Weather Success in 6b
In hardiness zone 6b, Tazewell is ideal for cool-season crops like kale, peas, and potatoes. The rich organic soil provides a perfect head start for any home gardener.
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 Tazewell County have?
Tazewell County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 42% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Tazewell County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Tazewell 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 Tazewell County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Tazewell County.
What crops or plants grow well in Tazewell County's soil?
Based on Tazewell 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 Tazewell County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Tazewell County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Tazewell County
Soil Verdict
Tazewell County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. 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
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Tazewell County is somewhat cooler than the Virginia statewide average. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Tazewell 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.