York County Soil Data
York County, Maine
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
3.7
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
34.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in York County, Maine
Southern Maine's Acidic Baseline
York County features an average pH of 3.75, making it more acidic than the state average of 3.88 and the national median of 6.5. This highly acidic profile is a defining characteristic of the local landscape and gardening conditions.
Sandy Texture and Easy Working
The soil contains 33.1% sand, 22.2% silt, and 5.5% clay, suggesting a lighter and well-aerated texture. This mix is generally easier to work in the spring but may require more frequent watering during dry summer spells.
Carbon Rich with Moderate Capacity
At 34.73% organic matter, these soils are incredibly carbon-rich compared to the 2.0% national average. However, the water capacity of 0.232 in/in is slightly lower than the state average of 0.242, requiring careful irrigation planning.
Rapid Drainage and Home Building
While specific drainage classes aren't listed, the high sand percentage typically points toward rapid water movement. Homeowners should check their specific site to ensure water drains away from foundations effectively during heavy rains.
Diverse Planting in Zone 5b
Being in Zone 5b allows you to grow a wide variety of vegetables and flowering perennials. Your soil score of 65.4 is near the state average, providing a reliable start for any new gardening journey.
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 3.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does York County have?
York County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 22% silt, and 5% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is York County's soil acidic or alkaline?
York County's soil has a low pH of 3.7, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for York County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for York County.
What crops or plants grow well in York County's soil?
Based on York County's Loam texture, pH of 3.7, 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 York County?
The dominant USDA soil order for York County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: York County
Soil Verdict
York County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°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
York County closely matches the Maine average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for York County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Maine
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.