Middlesex County Soil Data
Middlesex County, New Jersey
Avg pH
4.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
13.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Middlesex County, New Jersey
Classic New Jersey Acidic Soils
Middlesex County averages a pH of 4.39, which closely aligns with the state average of 4.24. This is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, requiring lime for most traditional lawn and garden plants. These conditions are a hallmark of the region's geologic history.
Sandy Texture for Easy Working
The soil is nearly half sand at 47.3%, complemented by 32.3% silt and 12.7% clay. This high sand percentage makes the ground very easy to work and provides excellent aeration for root systems. However, it can lead to faster leaching of nutrients if not managed with compost.
Exceptional Organic Content and Water Storage
Middlesex boasts a high organic matter content of 12.99%, well above the national 2.0% average. Furthermore, the available water capacity of 0.177 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.168. This means the soil is excellent at catching and holding onto rainfall for plant use.
Well-Drained Landscapes
The county is categorized as 'Well drained,' which is ideal for most agricultural and residential uses. This classification means water is removed from the soil readily but not so rapidly that plants suffer. It prevents the root rot issues often found in heavier, clay-rich environments.
Abundant Growth in Zone 7a
Zone 7a provides a long growing season for Middlesex residents to enjoy. The well-drained, sandy-silt soil is a favorite for local favorites like blueberries or even specialized viticulture. Dig in today and take advantage of some of the best water-retaining soils in the state.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently 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 — 47% sand, 32% silt, and 13% 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 4.4, 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?
Middlesex County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Middlesex County's soil?
Based on Middlesex County's Loam texture, pH of 4.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Middlesex County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Middlesex County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Middlesex County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in New Jersey
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.