Orange County Soil Data
Orange County, New York
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.7
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
19.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Orange County, New York
The Acidic, Rich Black Dirt Legacy
Orange County features an average pH of 4.68, significantly more acidic than the state average of 5.11. Despite this acidity, it maintains a soil score of 54.6. This unique chemical profile is characteristic of the region's famous 'black dirt' pockets.
A Silty Foundation for Farming
The soil contains 38.4% silt and 33.1% sand, which creates a fine-grained, easy-to-work surface. A relatively low clay content of 11.4% ensures the ground does not become excessively sticky when wet. This allows for early-season planting as the soil warms up quickly.
Surplus Organic Matter and Moisture
The county boasts an organic matter content of 19.18%, beating the state average of 17.01%. This high organic load drives an available water capacity of 0.187 in/in, which is better than the typical New York profile. It is a high-potential environment for crops that crave organic-rich foundations.
Managing High Water Retention
The mix of high organic matter and silt means this soil holds onto moisture with great efficiency. While specific hydrologic groups are not recorded, the high available water capacity suggests that drainage management is key. Strategic drainage is often used in this region to unlock the full potential of these moist soils.
Bountiful Harvests in Zone 6b
Orange County's 6b climate is famous for onions, celery, and lettuce that thrive in high-organic soils. The acidity is a perfect match for blueberries and other acid-loving shrubs. With such rich ground at your feet, it is the perfect place to start a backyard produce patch.
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 4.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Orange County have?
Orange County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 38% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Orange County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Orange County's soil has a low pH of 4.7, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Orange County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Orange County.
What crops or plants grow well in Orange County's soil?
Based on Orange County's Loam texture, pH of 4.7, 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 Orange County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Orange County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Orange County
Soil Verdict
Orange County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Orange County closely matches the New York average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Orange 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.