Orleans County Soil Data
Orleans County, New York
Avg pH
5.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
9.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Orleans County, New York
Orleans County’s Balanced Soil Profile
Orleans County reports a respectable soil score of 66.9, supported by an average pH of 5.85. This pH is higher than the state average of 5.11, making it less acidic and more hospitable to traditional garden crops. The land here provides a stable and productive agricultural base near the Lake Ontario shore.
Reliable Silt and Sand Blend
The soil is composed of 44.0% silt and 37.9% sand, striking a middle ground between drainage and retention. With 17.0% clay, the soil has enough body to hold onto fertilizers without being too heavy to till. This balance makes the land versatile for both orchards and row crops.
Consistent Yields and Water Storage
At 9.56% organic matter, Orleans exceeds the national average but falls below the New York state average of 17.01%. The available water capacity is 0.178 in/in, which is just slightly below the state average of 0.182. Despite these lower-than-average stats for the state, the soil remains highly productive.
Predictable Hydrology for Home and Farm
The absence of specific drainage class data is offset by the known silt-to-clay ratio which suggests moderate permeability. This soil typically avoids extreme waterlogging, making it easier to manage for building projects and perennial plantings. It provides a reliable foundation that responds well to standard management practices.
Fruit and Vegetable Success in Zone 6b
Orleans is part of a premier fruit-growing belt in Zone 6b, where apples and peaches thrive. The relatively high pH and good texture are perfect for starting a home orchard or a diverse vegetable plot. Don't wait to plant—your soil is ready to support a thriving 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 Orleans County have?
Orleans County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 38% sand, 44% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Orleans County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Orleans County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Orleans County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Orleans County.
What crops or plants grow well in Orleans County's soil?
Based on Orleans County's Loam texture, pH of 5.9, 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 Orleans County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Orleans County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Orleans 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.