Lewis County Soil Data
Lewis County, New York
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
27.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Lewis County, New York
Acidic and Unique Northern Soils
Lewis County soil averages a pH of 5.17, which is notably more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This measurement aligns closely with the New York state average of 5.11, reflecting the region's typical chemical profile.
Sandy Texture with Balanced Silt
The soil contains 40.7% sand and 8.8% clay, creating a light structure that allows for easy workability. A silt content of 25.3% helps balance the texture, though the high sand ratio suggests relatively rapid drainage.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter is exceptionally high at 27.72%, far exceeding the state average of 17.01%. The available water capacity of 0.206 in/in ensures the soil retains moisture more effectively than most New York counties.
Managing High Moisture Retention
Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are not available for this county. However, the remarkably high organic content suggests a sponge-like quality that helps manage heavy northern rainfall.
Hardy Crops for Zone 4b
Hardiness zone 4b requires cold-hardy varieties like kale, potatoes, or root vegetables. This nutrient-dense soil provides a powerful foundation for a productive northern New York garden.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lewis County have?
Lewis County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 41% sand, 25% silt, and 9% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lewis County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lewis 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 Lewis County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Lewis County.
What crops or plants grow well in Lewis County's soil?
Based on Lewis 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 Lewis County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Lewis County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lewis 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.