Yates County Soil Data
Yates County, New York
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
8.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Yates County, New York
High-Quality Agricultural Soils in Yates
Yates County boasts a soil score of 71.7, well above the state average of 59.7, indicating superior quality. The average pH of 5.97 is one of the closest in the state to the national median of 6.5. This favorable acidity level reduces the need for heavy lime applications and supports a diverse range of crops.
Fine Silt for Exceptional Texture
The soil is comprised of 47.4% silt, 32.1% sand, and 18.5% clay, creating a heavy but fertile silty loam. This composition offers the best of all worlds: good drainage from the sand and high nutrient-holding capacity from the clay. It is a robust mix that supports both vineyard roots and row crops.
Superior Water Capacity and Steady Organic Matter
Yates County features an available water capacity of 0.187 in/in, exceeding the New York state average. The organic matter content is 8.83%, providing a solid biological foundation for plant health. These metrics explain why this region is a premier destination for agriculture and viticulture in the Finger Lakes.
Optimized Hydrology for Local Vineyards
With a water capacity higher than the state average, the soil manages moisture effectively for long-term growth. Though specific hydrologic groups are not recorded, the balanced silt and clay levels suggest the soil holds moisture well while allowing excess to move through. This natural water management is a key asset for the county’s famous vineyards.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 6a
Zone 6a and the premium soil quality make Yates County a gardener's paradise, especially for grapes and berries. The silty loam is perfect for intensive vegetable gardening and fruit production alike. With such a high soil score, your land is ready to produce a bountiful and healthy harvest.
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 6.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Yates County have?
Yates County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 47% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Yates County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Yates County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Yates County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Yates County.
What crops or plants grow well in Yates County's soil?
Based on Yates County's Loam texture, pH of 6.0, 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 Yates County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Yates County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Yates County
Soil Verdict
Yates County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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. 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
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
Yates County closely matches the New York average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Yates 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.