Suffolk County Soil Data
Suffolk County, New York
Avg pH
4.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
25.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Suffolk County, New York
Unique Acidic Entisols on the Island
Suffolk County’s soil is quite acidic with a pH of 4.23, which is significantly lower than the state average of 5.11. The dominant taxonomic order is Entisols, representing young soils with limited horizon development. Despite the low pH, the county maintains a respectable soil score of 63.6.
Sandy Shores and Easy Drainage
The soil is notably sandy at 55.4%, with only 19.5% silt and 5.8% clay. This creates a very loose, workable texture that drains very efficiently but has low natural nutrient retention. Gardeners here often need to add amendments to keep nutrients from leaching away.
Surprising Richness and High Water Holding
Suffolk boasts a high organic matter content of 25.91%, well above the state average of 17.01%. This contributes to an available water capacity of 0.210 in/in, which is higher than the state average of 0.182 in/in. This extra organic matter is crucial for holding moisture in the sandy profile.
Moderately Well Drained Coastal Soils
The county is characterized by a moderately well drained class, which is ideal for avoiding root rot in the humid island climate. However, the high sand content means water moves quickly through the profile. This makes precise irrigation and fertilization essential for local agriculture.
Thriving in the Long Island Zone 7b
The mild 7b climate allows for a long growing season and the cultivation of specialty crops like wine grapes and tender greens. The acidic Entisols are particularly well-suited for blueberries and hydrangeas. Your coastal garden can flourish here with attention to pH and nutrient levels.
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Suffolk County have?
Suffolk County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 55% sand, 19% silt, and 6% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Suffolk County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Suffolk County's soil has a low pH of 4.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Suffolk County?
Suffolk County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Suffolk County's soil?
Based on Suffolk County's Loam texture, pH of 4.2, and Moderately 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 Suffolk County?
Suffolk 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Suffolk 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.