Delaware County Soil Data

Delaware County, New York

Avg pH

5.2

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

12.9%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Delaware County, New York

Classic Catskill Acidic Soil

Delaware County soil has a pH of 5.16, which is nearly identical to the New York state average. Taxonomic data is not available, but the pH trails the national median of 6.5 by a wide margin.

Balanced Texture for Mountain Farming

The soil contains 47.2% silt and 35.5% sand, offering a balanced texture for various agricultural practices. With 12.9% clay, the soil maintains a decent structure without becoming overly difficult to till.

Reliable Moisture for Growing

Organic matter content is 12.86%, trailing the state average but still very high by national standards. The available water capacity of 0.182 in/in exactly matches the state average, ensuring reliable moisture for crops.

Monitor Drainage on Steep Terrain

Data regarding dominant drainage classes and hydrologic groups is not currently available. Residents should monitor local drainage around foundations, especially given the steep terrain common in this region.

Hardy Berries for Mountain Gardens

Hardiness zone 5b means you can grow a variety of hardy berries and root vegetables. It is a great time to plant a home garden and enjoy the unique Catskill terroir.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 35.5%
Silt: 47.2%
Clay: 12.9%
Loam

Soil pH

5.2pH
5.16430982943282
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Delaware County have?

Delaware County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 47% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Delaware County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Delaware County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.

What is the drainage class for Delaware County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Delaware County.

What crops or plants grow well in Delaware County's soil?

Based on Delaware County's Loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Delaware County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Delaware County is not currently available in our dataset.

Other Counties in New York

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.