Madison County Soil Data
Madison County, New York
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
8.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Madison County, New York
Prime pH in Central New York
Madison County boasts a pH of 6.05, placing it significantly higher than the New York state average of 5.11. This level approaches the national median of 6.5, making it more versatile than many surrounding counties.
Silt-Rich Foundation for Farming
Silt makes up nearly half of the composition at 49.2%, while sand accounts for 32.7%. The 15.9% clay content helps with nutrient retention without making the soil too heavy to till effectively.
Rich Organic Content and Capacity
Organic matter levels reach 8.75%, which is quite healthy compared to the 2.0% national average. An available water capacity of 0.176 in/in ensures that plants have access to steady moisture throughout the season.
Natural Moisture Balance
While official drainage class data is currently missing, the silt-heavy profile typically indicates moderate drainage speeds. This balance helps prevent both drought stress and waterlogged roots in your garden beds.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 5b
Hardiness zone 5b supports a variety of hardy perennials and cool-season crops like peas and broccoli. Leverage this high-scoring soil to start a diverse vegetable patch or a flowering landscape.
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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Madison County have?
Madison County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 49% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Madison County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Madison County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Madison County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Madison County.
What crops or plants grow well in Madison County's soil?
Based on Madison County's Loam texture, pH of 6.1, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Madison County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Madison County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Madison County
Soil Verdict
Madison 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
Madison County is somewhat cooler than the New York statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Madison 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.