St. Lawrence County Soil Data
St. Lawrence County, New York
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
23.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in St. Lawrence County, New York
Acidic Profiles Along the Northern Border
St. Lawrence County features an average pH of 5.33, which is slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.11. Despite the low pH compared to the national median of 6.5, the county earns a high soil score of 70.0. This score reflects a robust natural system capable of supporting diverse flora.
Sandy Texture for Quick Response
The soil composition is dominated by 48.5% sand, with 27.2% silt and 10.4% clay. This sandy profile allows for rapid drainage but may require more frequent nutrient amendments. The low clay percentage means the soil warms up quickly in the spring, which is vital for northern latitudes.
Rich Organic Matter and High Water Capacity
With an organic matter content of 23.70%, this soil is significantly richer than both the national average and the state benchmark of 17.01%. This richness supports a high available water capacity of 0.202 in/in. These factors together create a fertile environment that retains moisture well despite the sandy texture.
Efficient Water Movement in Northern Soils
Though specific hydrologic groups are not listed, the 48.5% sand content points toward high permeability. This helps prevent standing water during the heavy snowmelt periods typical of the region. Good drainage is a primary asset for both agriculture and stable building foundations here.
Hardy Growing in Zone 4b
In USDA Zone 4b, growers focus on cold-hardy crops like brassicas, root vegetables, and berries. The high organic matter provides a buffer against the short growing season. With such a high soil score, your northern garden is poised for success with the right cold-tolerant selections.
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 St. Lawrence County have?
St. Lawrence County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 27% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is St. Lawrence County's soil acidic or alkaline?
St. Lawrence County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for St. Lawrence County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for St. Lawrence County.
What crops or plants grow well in St. Lawrence County's soil?
Based on St. Lawrence County's Loam texture, pH of 5.3, 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 St. Lawrence County?
The dominant USDA soil order for St. Lawrence County is not currently available in our dataset.
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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.