Barnstable County Soil Data
Barnstable County, Massachusetts
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
3.6
Texture
Water
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
22.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Barnstable County, Massachusetts
Acidic Coastal Soils of the Cape
Barnstable County features an extremely acidic soil profile with an average pH of 3.57, sitting slightly below the state average of 3.61. This measurement is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5, suggesting a highly specialized growing environment. The dominant texture is classified as water-influenced, reflecting the county’s extensive coastal and wetland geography.
Sand Dominates the Sandy Hook
The soil contains 47.0% sand, 19.0% silt, and 4.1% clay. This high sand content promotes rapid drainage but often results in lower nutrient retention compared to heavier inland soils. Gardeners find the ground easy to work, though it requires frequent irrigation and organic amendments to thrive.
High Organic Content in Porous Ground
Organic matter levels reach a high 22.06%, which dwarf the national average of 2.0% but trail the Massachusetts state average of 29.25%. The available water capacity of 0.166 inches per inch indicates the soil holds slightly less moisture than the state average of 0.184. These conditions favor acid-loving plants that can handle slightly drier, organic-rich beds.
Fast Drainage Across the Peninsula
Official drainage and hydrologic group classifications are not available for this coastal region in the current dataset. However, the sandy composition suggests that water moves through the soil profile very quickly, preventing pooling but requiring careful moisture management. Residents must manage this high permeability to prevent nutrient runoff into local coastal waters.
Coastal Favorites Thrive in Zone 7a
Situated in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, Barnstable is ideal for salt-tolerant and acid-loving species like blueberries and hydrangeas. The milder coastal winters allow for a longer growing season than much of inland Massachusetts. Grab a trowel and take advantage of these unique, organic-heavy coastal conditions.
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: Water
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 3.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Barnstable County have?
Barnstable County's soil is classified as Water. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 47% sand, 19% silt, and 4% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Barnstable County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Barnstable County's soil has a low pH of 3.6, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Barnstable County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Barnstable County.
What crops or plants grow well in Barnstable County's soil?
Based on Barnstable County's Water texture, pH of 3.6, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas.
What USDA soil order is found in Barnstable County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Barnstable County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Barnstable County
Soil Verdict
Barnstable 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
Barnstable County is somewhat warmer than the Massachusetts statewide average. The zone range of 7a-7b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Barnstable County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Massachusetts
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.