Dukes County Soil Data
Dukes County, Massachusetts
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
14.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Dukes County, Massachusetts
Island Soils with Acidic Character
Dukes County features an acidic soil profile with an average pH of 4.78, which sits above the state average of 3.61 but below the national median of 6.5. The county receives a soil score of 36.3, reflecting the unique challenges of its island geography. These conditions create a specialized environment that demands careful plant selection.
The Sandiest Soils in the Region
The soil is predominantly sandy at 61.6%, mixed with 19.4% silt and 4.6% clay. This high sand fraction makes for very loose, well-draining soil that is easy to dig but struggles to hold onto nutrients. It is the sandiest profile among the southern Massachusetts counties, requiring frequent fertilization.
Managing Low Water Capacity
Organic matter levels are 14.19%, which is high compared to the 2.0% national average but well below the 29.25% state benchmark. The available water capacity of 0.127 inches per inch is significantly lower than the state average of 0.184. Gardeners must focus on moisture retention strategies to keep plants hydrated in this porous earth.
High Permeability on the Vineyard
Specific drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not listed in the current data for the islands. The heavy sand content implies that water moves rapidly through the ground, minimizing the risk of pooling but increasing the need for irrigation. Managing this fast drainage is key to maintaining a lush landscape in the sandy island interior.
Maritime Hardiness in Zone 7b
Located in Zone 7b, Dukes County enjoys some of the mildest winters in Massachusetts. This climate, combined with sandy soil, is ideal for maritime-adapted species like bayberry and beach plum. Residents should embrace the island's unique conditions by planting drought-resistant and salt-hardy varieties.
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 4.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Dukes County have?
Dukes County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 62% sand, 19% silt, and 5% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Dukes County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Dukes County's soil has a low pH of 4.8, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Dukes County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Dukes County.
What crops or plants grow well in Dukes County's soil?
Based on Dukes County's Loam texture, pH of 4.8, 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 Dukes County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Dukes County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Dukes County
Soil Verdict
Dukes County is in USDA hardiness zone 7b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 5°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. 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.
Regional Context
Dukes 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 Dukes 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.