Middlesex County Soil Data
Middlesex County, Massachusetts
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
3.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
35.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Middlesex County, Massachusetts
Acidic Foundations in Middlesex
Middlesex features a highly acidic soil profile with a pH of 3.17, significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic orders are unclassified in the record, the overall soil score of 64.5 indicates a high-quality foundation that beats the state average of 50.8.
A Light and Workable Texture
The soil is 39.0% sand, 21.5% silt, and a small 3.9% clay fraction. This composition creates a light texture that is easy to work and resists the heavy compaction common in clay-heavy regions.
Exceptional Organic Richness
Fertility is a major highlight here, as organic matter sits at 35.86%, well above the state average of 29.25%. With an available water capacity of 0.212 in/in, these soils hold moisture effectively to support intensive plant growth.
Managing the Flow
While specific drainage classes are not recorded, the sandy-silt mix typically indicates moderate to rapid drainage. Local growers should assess site-specific hydrologic groups to manage runoff effectively in this landscape.
Thriving in Zone 6b
Middlesex sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, which is ideal for hardy perennials and cold-weather vegetables. The high organic content makes this a prime location to start a lush home garden today.
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 3.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Middlesex County have?
Middlesex County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 39% sand, 21% silt, and 4% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Middlesex County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Middlesex County's soil has a low pH of 3.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Middlesex County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Middlesex County.
What crops or plants grow well in Middlesex County's soil?
Based on Middlesex County's Loam texture, pH of 3.2, 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 Middlesex County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Middlesex County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Middlesex County
Soil Verdict
Middlesex County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. 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
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Middlesex County closely matches the Massachusetts average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Middlesex 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.