Carroll County Soil Data
Carroll County, Maryland
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
6.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Carroll County, Maryland
Balanced pH in Maryland's Heartland
Carroll County leads the pack with a soil score of 69.3 and an average pH of 5.85. This pH is significantly higher than the state average of 5.31 and closer to the national median of 6.5 than most of its neighbors. These chemical properties make it some of the most versatile and valuable land in the region.
Silt-Dominant Soils for Smooth Texture
The soil features a high silt content of 45.4% and a moderate sand level of 31.7%. Combined with 16.3% clay, this creates a silty loam texture that is prized for its ability to hold nutrients and provide a smooth seedbed. It is a robust, 'heavy' soil that provides excellent support for large crops.
Strong Yield Potential and Water Storage
At 6.61%, the organic matter is solid and productive, and the available water capacity of 0.190 in/in beats the state average of 0.175. This combination ensures that the soil can sustain growth through the heat of summer. Farmers and gardeners alike benefit from this natural efficiency and nutrient-rich profile.
Consistent Moisture for Healthy Roots
While drainage class data is not specified, the high water capacity and silt levels indicate a soil that stays moist without being swampy. The clay content is high enough to slow down water just enough for plants to drink, but not so much that it prevents air from reaching the roots. It is a stable, high-performing hydrologic environment.
Abundant Harvests in Zone 7a
Carroll County's Zone 7a climate is perfect for classic Maryland orchards and vegetable gardens. The high soil score means you can expect vigorous growth from tomatoes, apples, and peppers with minimal intervention. It is the perfect time to start your garden in some of the state's finest soil.
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 5.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Carroll County have?
Carroll County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 45% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Carroll County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Carroll County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Carroll County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Carroll County.
What crops or plants grow well in Carroll County's soil?
Based on Carroll County's Loam texture, pH of 5.9, 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 Carroll County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Carroll County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Carroll County
Soil Verdict
Carroll County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°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. 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
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. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Carroll County closely matches the Maryland average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Carroll County on LawnByCounty.com →
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.