Delaware County Soil Data
Delaware County, New York
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
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 5.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Delaware County
Soil Verdict
Delaware County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°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
Delaware County is somewhat cooler than the New York statewide average. The zone range of 5a-5b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Delaware County on LawnByCounty.com →
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.