Washington County Soil Data
Washington County, New York
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
9.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Washington County, New York
Mildly Acidic and Balanced Soil Identity
Washington County reports an average soil pH of 5.48, which is slightly less acidic than the New York state average of 5.11. Although it remains below the national median of 6.5, this pH level is favorable for a wider variety of traditional crops. The soil presents a stable chemical environment for local agriculture and diverse forest growth.
A Balanced Mix of Silt and Sand
The soil is a balanced blend of 41.7% silt and 39.0% sand, providing a versatile texture for farming. Clay content sits at 15.3%, offering enough density to hold nutrients without becoming overly compacted or difficult to till. This mix creates a soil that is both workable and capable of supporting complex root systems.
Moderate Fertility and Water Retention
Organic matter content is 9.00%, which falls below the high state average of 17.01% but remains well above the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is 0.172 in/in, aligning closely with the state average of 0.182 in/in. This indicates a reliable growing potential that responds well to seasonal rain cycles.
Reliable Moisture Management for Growers
Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unavailable, but the balanced silt-sand ratio suggests moderate drainage speeds. With an available water capacity near the state average, the soil effectively buffers against brief dry spells. Farmers can expect predictable moisture behavior for most field crops and garden beds.
Success in Hardiness Zone 5a
In Zone 5a, Washington County gardeners can find great success with cool-weather vegetables like kale, peas, and hardy orchard fruits. The balanced soil composition is particularly welcoming to apple trees and diverse forage crops. Your land offers a solid foundation for a productive and sustainable home 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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Washington County have?
Washington County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 39% sand, 42% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Washington County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Washington County's soil has a low pH of 5.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Washington County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Washington County.
What crops or plants grow well in Washington County's soil?
Based on Washington County's Loam texture, pH of 5.5, 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 Washington County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Washington County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Washington County
Soil Verdict
Washington County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°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. With extreme winter lows, any marginally hardy plants need heavy mulch and wind protection. 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
Washington County is somewhat cooler than the New York statewide average. The zone range of 5a-5b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Washington 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.