Rockland County Soil Data
Rockland County, New York
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
3.7
Texture
Gravelly loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
20.7%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Rockland County, New York
Rockland’s Acidic Gravelly Loams
Rockland County is dominated by gravelly loam and Entisols, with a notably acidic pH of 3.67. This level is much lower than the national median of 6.5 and falls well below the state average of 5.11. These young soils are still developing and reflect the rugged geological history of the Hudson Valley.
A Gritty Mix for Better Airflow
The soil composition features 38.6% sand, 24.4% silt, and 7.8% clay. The dominant gravelly loam texture provides excellent aeration for plant roots. This grit prevents the soil from compacting easily, making it easier to work for gardening and construction alike.
Rich Organic Reserves in Rockland
Rockland features an exceptional organic matter content of 20.71%, which is significantly higher than the state average of 17.01%. Its available water capacity of 0.172 in/in is nearly on par with the state average of 0.182 in/in. This means the soil is naturally fertile and capable of supporting lush vegetation if pH is managed.
Well-Drained Uplands
The county's soils are classified as 'well drained' and belong to hydrologic group C. This means water moves through the profile at a steady rate, reducing the risk of root rot for most plants. These conditions are ideal for building foundations and maintaining healthy residential lawns.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 7a
In hardiness zone 7a, Rockland gardeners can enjoy a variety of temperate fruits and vegetables. The well-drained gravelly loam is particularly well-suited for grapevines and perennial shrubs. Dig in and take advantage of these fertile, high-organic soils for your next planting project.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Gravelly loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 3.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Rockland County have?
Rockland County's soil is classified as Gravelly loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 39% sand, 24% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Rockland County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Rockland County's soil has a low pH of 3.7, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Rockland County?
Rockland County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Rockland County's soil?
Based on Rockland County's Gravelly loam texture, pH of 3.7, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Rockland County?
Rockland County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Rockland County
Soil Verdict
Rockland County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Rockland County is somewhat warmer than the New York statewide average. 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 Rockland 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.