Morris County Soil Data
Morris County, New Jersey
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
16.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Morris County, New Jersey
Acidic and Rich Northern Soils
Morris County has a pH of 4.21, almost exactly mirroring the New Jersey state average. This is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, creating a specific niche for acid-loving flora. The chemistry reflects the county's diverse upland terrain and glacial history.
A Gritty, Versatile Mineral Mix
The soil contains 39.5% sand and 32.4% silt, providing a balanced texture for various uses. With only 11.5% clay, the soil remains porous and easy to manage without becoming overly compacted. This mix allows for excellent root penetration for both trees and smaller plants.
State-Leading Organic Matter levels
At 16.29% organic matter, Morris County exceeds both the state average and the national 2.0% benchmark. This richness is paired with a high available water capacity of 0.177 in/in. It is among the most fertile soil profiles in the state for water and nutrient storage.
Naturally Well-Drained Terrain
The soil is classified as 'Well drained,' making it ideal for residential landscaping and gardening alike. Water moves efficiently through the profile, preventing the pooling that can damage plant health. This reliable drainage is a key asset for the county’s many parks and wooded areas.
Cooler Seasons in Zone 6b
As a Zone 6b region, Morris County has slightly shorter growing seasons than its southern neighbors. However, the high organic matter and well-drained soil make it perfect for rhododendrons and woodland perennials. Your garden will thrive with the exceptional natural water-holding capacity found here.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Morris County have?
Morris County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 32% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Morris County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Morris County's soil has a low pH of 4.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Morris County?
Morris 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 Morris County's soil?
Based on Morris County's Loam texture, pH of 4.2, 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 Morris County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Morris County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Morris County
Soil Verdict
Morris 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
Morris County is somewhat cooler than the New Jersey statewide average. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Morris 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.