Yamhill County Soil Data
Yamhill County, Oregon
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Stratified sand to gravel
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
19.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Yamhill County, Oregon
Gravelly Textures with High Potential
Yamhill County features stratified sand-to-gravel textures with an average pH of 5.31. This pH is slightly more basic than the state average of 5.26 but remains well below the national median of 6.5. A soil score of 73.2 indicates these lands are superior to the Oregon average of 70.2.
Silty Foundation for Strong Growth
The soil contains 53.9% silt and 24.8% clay, with sand making up the remaining 19.9%. This silty texture is the backbone of the county's famous agricultural productivity. The presence of gravel ensures that the heavy silt and clay don't become overly compacted.
Rich Organic Matter for Farming
Organic matter levels sit at 19.46%, which is nearly ten times higher than the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity of 0.251 in/in falls slightly below the Oregon state average of 0.275. These soils provide a nutrient-dense foundation for deep-rooted crops.
Complex Subsurface Water Flow
Dominant drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not formally specified in the current dataset. The stratified sand and gravel texture suggests that vertical drainage is likely faster than in pure clay soils. Homeowners should still test for seasonal saturation before beginning large construction projects.
The Vineyard Heart of Zone 8b
Yamhill's Zone 8b climate and unique gravelly soils make it the premier destination for Oregon Pinot Noir. The soil’s ability to drain while providing high organic nutrients is perfect for viticulture and hazelnut orchards. Your garden will thrive here with just a bit of summer watering.
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: Stratified sand to gravel
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Yamhill County have?
Yamhill County's soil is classified as Stratified sand to gravel. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 54% silt, and 25% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Yamhill County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Yamhill 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 Yamhill County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Yamhill County.
What crops or plants grow well in Yamhill County's soil?
Based on Yamhill County's Stratified sand to gravel texture, pH of 5.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists.
What USDA soil order is found in Yamhill County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Yamhill County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Yamhill County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Oregon
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.