Onondaga County Soil Data
Onondaga County, New York
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
6.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Onondaga County, New York
Onondaga's Near-Neutral Agricultural Base
Onondaga County features a pH of 6.06, which is significantly closer to the national median of 6.5 than the New York state average. This gives the county a respectable soil score of 65.9. The chemistry here creates a versatile environment for many plants that struggle in the more acidic soils typical of the Northeast.
Silty Soils Offer Smooth Workability
The soil composition is dominated by 47.3% silt and 35.1% sand, with a moderate 17.0% clay content. This silty texture provides excellent nutrient retention while maintaining better structure than sandy soils. It offers a smooth, reliable medium for both commercial agriculture and home landscaping.
Reliable Nutrients and Moisture
At 6.88%, the organic matter content is lower than the state average of 17.01% but remains triple the national average. The available water capacity (AWC) sits at 0.170 in/in, meaning the soil holds slightly less water than the state median. Growers can expect consistent performance, though supplemental irrigation may be helpful during dry spells.
Steady Hydrology for Development
Without specific drainage class data, the silt-heavy mix indicates moderate permeability for water movement. The 17% clay content helps prevent nutrients from leaching too quickly through the profile. This balance supports healthy root systems while providing a stable base for construction and gardening.
Diversity Thrives in Zone 6a
The 6a hardiness zone allows for a wide range of perennials and deciduous fruit trees like apples and cherries. Because the pH is relatively high for New York, you can grow diverse vegetables without heavy lime applications. It is a fantastic time to plant a vegetable garden or establish an 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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Onondaga County have?
Onondaga County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 47% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Onondaga County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Onondaga 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 Onondaga County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Onondaga County.
What crops or plants grow well in Onondaga County's soil?
Based on Onondaga 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 Onondaga County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Onondaga County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Onondaga County
Soil Verdict
Onondaga County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Onondaga County closely matches the New York average hardiness conditions. 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 Onondaga 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.