Cuyahoga County Soil Data
Cuyahoga County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
6.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Acidic Profiles in the Urban Core
Cuyahoga County features a fairly acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.51. This is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5 and falls below the Ohio state average of 5.97.
High Silt and Sand Composition
The soil mix is dominated by 48.1% silt and 29.4% sand, with 18.4% clay rounding out the profile. While specific texture data is limited, the high silt content generally provides a smooth, workable medium for urban landscapes.
Exceptional Urban Organic Matter
Organic matter is a standout feature here at 6.02%, far surpassing the state average of 4.85%. Despite the high organic content, the available water capacity matches the state average exactly at 0.186 in/in.
Urban Drainage Considerations
Specific drainage class and taxonomic data are limited for this county, but the 18.4% clay content suggests moderate natural permeability. Urban gardeners should test local spots to ensure adequate drainage before planting.
Greening the Lakefront in 6b
Located in hardiness zone 6b, the county's high organic matter is ideal for intensive raised-bed gardening. The slightly warmer lake-effect climate allows for a long growing season for leafy greens and perennials.
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 Cuyahoga County have?
Cuyahoga County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 48% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cuyahoga County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cuyahoga County's soil has a pH of 5.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Cuyahoga County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cuyahoga County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cuyahoga County's soil?
Based on Cuyahoga County's Loam texture, pH of 5.5, 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 Cuyahoga County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cuyahoga County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Cuyahoga County
Soil Verdict
Cuyahoga County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Cuyahoga County closely matches the Ohio average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cuyahoga County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Ohio
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.