Armstrong County Soil Data
Armstrong County, Pennsylvania
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Extremely channery loam
Drainage
Somewhat excessively drained
Organic Matter
9.7%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania
Entisols and channery loams define Armstrong
The county is characterized by Entisols, specifically an extremely channery loam texture. With an average pH of 5.41, the soil is more acidic than the national median of 6.5 but less so than the state average. These young soils often show limited horizon development but provide unique growing conditions.
A rocky, silty mineral mix
The mineral makeup includes 52.1% silt and 25.9% sand, with 16.8% clay. The presence of channery—or flat, stony fragments—improves internal drainage but can make digging difficult. This mix creates a soil that is well-aerated but may require frequent watering.
Rich organic matter supports plant health
Armstrong County boasts a high organic matter content of 9.73%, nearing the state average of 12.14% and dwarfing the national 2.0%. Available water capacity sits at 0.154 in/in, which is just above the Pennsylvania average. This combination creates a fertile environment for both forests and farms.
Excessive drainage through Hydrologic Group A
The soil is classified as somewhat excessively drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group A. This means water moves very quickly through the profile, reducing the risk of runoff but increasing the chance of drought stress. It is an ideal profile for building sites that require stable, dry conditions.
Growing strong in zone 6b
The hardiness zone 6b climate supports a robust selection of timber and hardy vegetables. Root crops like carrots and potatoes perform well in the loose, silty-loam textures found here. If you have a sunny spot, this is the perfect place to start a high-yield vegetable garden.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Somewhat excessively drained
Water is removed rapidly. Soils may be droughty and have limited water-holding capacity.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Extremely channery loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Armstrong County have?
Armstrong County's soil is classified as Extremely channery loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 52% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Armstrong County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Armstrong County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Armstrong County?
Armstrong County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Armstrong County's soil?
Based on Armstrong County's Extremely channery loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Somewhat excessively drained, 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 Armstrong County?
Armstrong 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 Armstrong County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Pennsylvania
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.