Greene County Soil Data
Greene County, New York
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
15.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Greene County, New York
Typical Hudson Valley Soil Chemistry
Greene County soil has an average pH of 5.33, which is slightly above the New York average of 5.11. This remains more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This pH level is common for the region and supports a variety of native forest and meadow species.
Silat-Dominant Textures and Nutrient Retention
The soil is comprised of 34.9% sand, 44.9% silt, and 14.7% clay. This combination provides a fine-textured soil that holds water and nutrients more effectively than sandy soils. The significant silt percentage makes the soil feel smooth and allows for easy root penetration.
Solid Fertility with Average Water Storage
Organic matter content is 15.94%, resting just below the state average of 17.01%. The available water capacity is 0.183 in/in, almost exactly at the state baseline. This indicates that Greene County soil provides a reliable and steady supply of moisture for growing crops.
Understanding Local Water Movement
Official drainage class and hydrologic group data are not currently available for this area. The significant silt and clay components suggest that water moves through this soil at a moderate rate. Gardeners may need to adjust for seasonal moisture peaks to avoid waterlogging.
Grow Anything in Zone 5b
Greene County sits in USDA Zone 5b, offering a flexible climate for many fruits and vegetables. The soil's balanced texture and reliable water capacity are perfect for apples, berries, and brassicas. It is a fantastic place to establish a productive home garden or small orchard.
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 5.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Greene County have?
Greene County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 45% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Greene County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Greene County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Greene County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Greene County.
What crops or plants grow well in Greene County's soil?
Based on Greene County's Loam texture, pH of 5.3, 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 Greene County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Greene County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Greene County
Soil Verdict
Greene 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
Greene County is somewhat cooler than the New York statewide average. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Greene 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.