Monmouth County Soil Data
Monmouth County, New Jersey
Avg pH
5.0
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
8.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Monmouth County, New Jersey
Sandy Entisols of the Shore
Monmouth County is dominated by Entisols, characterized by a pH of 5.03. This is more alkaline than the state average of 4.24 but still more acidic than the national 6.5 median. These soils represent relatively young geologic formations common along the Atlantic coast.
High Sand Content and Silt Loams
With a massive 64.2% sand content and only 9.9% clay, the soil is physically dominated by coarse particles. Despite this, the dominant texture is classified as silt loam in many areas. This creates a unique mix that feels light to the touch but retains a powdery silty quality.
High Carbon, Lower Water Holding
The organic matter content is strong at 8.14%, far outpacing the 2.0% national benchmark. However, the available water capacity is low at 0.131 in/in compared to the state average of 0.168. Gardeners must watch for fast drying times because the high sand content allows water to pass through quickly.
Excessively Drained Coastal Plains
The county's soil is 'Excessively drained,' meaning water moves through the profile very rapidly. While this is great for preventing soggy yards, it can be a challenge for thirsty crops during July and August. Careful irrigation planning is required for any serious agricultural endeavor here.
Gardening in the 7b Coastal Climate
The 7b hardiness zone offers mild winters and a lengthy summer, perfect for coastal gardening. Native shore plants and hardy herbs thrive in these fast-draining, sandy conditions. Consider planting drought-tolerant species that love the sun and the quick-drying Entisol soil.
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
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
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 Monmouth County have?
Monmouth County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 64% sand, 21% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Monmouth County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Monmouth County's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Monmouth County?
Monmouth County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Monmouth County's soil?
Based on Monmouth County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.0, and Excessively drained, 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 Monmouth County?
Monmouth County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Monmouth 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.