Garrett County Soil Data
Garrett County, Maryland
Avg pH
5.1
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
12.8%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Garrett County, Maryland
Acidic Inceptisols of the Western Highlands
Garrett County is dominated by Inceptisols with a silt loam texture and a pH of 5.07. This acidity is sharper than the state average of 5.31 and the national median of 6.5. These young soils reflect the rugged, mountainous terrain of Maryland's western tip.
Dense silt and clay ratios
The soil is comprised of 40.2% silt and 14.6% clay, with a lower sand content of 28.8%. This creates a heavy silt loam that can be challenging to work when wet. The high silt percentage gives the soil a floury feel when dry but a slick, muddy texture after rain.
Explosive organic matter in high altitudes
With an extraordinary 12.76% organic matter, these soils are far richer than the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity of 0.159 in/in sits below the state average of 0.175. The abundance of organic material provides excellent natural nutrients for hardy plants.
Poor drainage and high water tables
This land is classified as very poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group C/D. Water moves slowly through these soils, which often remain saturated for long periods. Farmers and builders must account for this slow percolation to avoid flooding or structural issues.
Hardy gardening in Zone 6a
As Maryland's coldest region in Zone 6a, Garrett County requires plants that can handle a shorter growing season. The 12.76% organic matter is a major asset, but you should use raised beds to overcome the very poor drainage. Focus on cold-hardy root vegetables and brassicas for the best results.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Garrett County have?
Garrett County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 40% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Garrett County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Garrett County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Garrett County?
Garrett County has a dominant drainage class of "Very poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Garrett County's soil?
Based on Garrett County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.1, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Garrett County?
Garrett County's dominant soil order is Inceptisols. Inceptisols are young soils with weak horizon development. They occur in a wide range of climates and parent materials.
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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.