Frederick County Soil Data
Frederick County, Maryland
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Frederick County, Maryland
Typical Maryland acidity in Frederick
Frederick County averages a pH of 5.36, placing it almost exactly at the state average of 5.31. This level is more acidic than the national 6.5 median but remains manageable for most regional crops. While formal taxonomic orders are not listed, the chemical profile is classic for the Piedmont region.
Heavy silt concentrations define the mix
A substantial 44.7% silt and 16.8% clay content give this soil a heavier, more substantial feel. Sand makes up 34.8% of the mix, providing some balance to the denser particles. This composition often creates a soil that holds together well but requires more effort to cultivate.
Low organic matter requires enrichment
The soil contains just 2.14% organic matter, which is significantly lower than the Maryland state average of 9.10%. The available water capacity is also below the state benchmark at 0.157 in/in. Local gardeners should prioritize adding compost and mulch to boost these levels.
Managing moisture in Frederick soil
Official drainage class and hydrologic group data are not available for this specific county profile. The high silt and clay percentages suggest a potential for slower drainage compared to sandier coastal counties. Monitoring your soil after a heavy rain will help identify if your plot holds water too long.
Gardening in the heart of Zone 7a
Zone 7a provides a reliable window for traditional favorites like apples, berries, and cool-season greens. Because the organic matter is low at 2.14%, building up your soil health is the first step toward success. Start a compost pile now to transform this silty ground into a productive harvest.
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 Frederick County have?
Frederick County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 45% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Frederick County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Frederick County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Frederick County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Frederick County.
What crops or plants grow well in Frederick County's soil?
Based on Frederick County's Loam texture, pH of 5.4, 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 Frederick County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Frederick County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Frederick 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.