Caroline County Soil Data
Caroline County, Maryland
Avg pH
5.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
13.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Caroline County, Maryland
Top-Tier Soil Quality on the Shore
Caroline County boasts a high soil score of 68.9, reflecting its excellent agricultural heritage. The average pH of 5.61 is one of the most balanced in the state, exceeding the Maryland average of 5.31. While still below the national median of 6.5, these soils are highly productive for a wide range of crops.
A Gritty and Productive Mix
The soil is comprised of 48.8% sand and 23.8% silt, creating a texture that is easy to manage and promotes healthy root growth. With only 7.8% clay, the soil is very light and does not suffer from the heavy, sticky characteristics of more clay-dense counties. This allows for early-season planting as the ground warms up quickly.
Rich Organic Matter and High Capacity
The organic matter in Caroline County is impressive at 13.66%, well above the state average of 9.10%. This is paired with an available water capacity of 0.190 in/in, which exceeds the state average of 0.175. These numbers represent a soil that is both fertile and excellent at surviving periods of low rainfall.
Naturally Efficient Water Storage
Although specific hydrologic groups are not listed, the combination of high organic matter and high water capacity points to a very efficient system. The low clay content prevents waterlogging, while the organic matter holds on to the moisture needed for plant health. It is a stable foundation for the county's thriving farm economy.
Agricultural Excellence in Zone 7b
Zone 7b and high-quality soil make Caroline County a gardener's paradise for everything from corn to specialty vegetables. The high organic content means you'll need less fertilizer to achieve great yields in your backyard. Whether you are planting a small bed or a large field, this soil is ready to produce.
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 Caroline County have?
Caroline County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 49% sand, 24% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Caroline County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Caroline County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Caroline County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Caroline County.
What crops or plants grow well in Caroline County's soil?
Based on Caroline County's Loam texture, pH of 5.6, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Caroline County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Caroline County is not currently available in our dataset.
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Other Counties in Maryland
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.