Berks County Soil Data
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
6.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Berks County, Pennsylvania
Berks County's slightly acidic profile
Average soil pH in Berks County is 5.39, which is slightly less acidic than the state's average of 5.22. Compared to the national median of 6.5, the soil requires careful management to support alkaline-preferring plants. Taxonomic data is not provided, but the chemical makeup reflects the region's agricultural heritage.
Silt and sand drive soil texture
The composition consists of 43.5% silt and 29.1% sand, offering a relatively light and workable texture. With a low clay content of 15.0%, the soil drains reasonably well but may struggle with nutrient leaching. This mix is highly valued by local farmers for its versatility in crop rotation.
Solid organic matter with modest storage
Organic matter stands at 5.99%, well above the national average of 2.0% but shy of the state average of 12.14%. The available water capacity is 0.140 in/in, which is lower than the Pennsylvania state average of 0.151 in/in. Regular additions of compost can help boost the soil's ability to hold onto water.
Managing water in low-clay soils
Specific drainage classes are not listed for the county, but the low clay percentage usually prevents heavy waterlogging. The silty-sand mix suggests that water moves through the upper layers at a moderate rate. Gardeners should watch for erosion on sloped areas during heavy rain events.
A longer season in zone 7a
The warmer zone 7a climate gives Berks County a longer growing season than many of its northern neighbors. This is an excellent region for growing tomatoes, peppers, and even some varieties of grapes. Get your seeds started early to enjoy a bounty that lasts well into the fall.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Berks County have?
Berks County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 43% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Berks County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Berks 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 Berks County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Berks County.
What crops or plants grow well in Berks County's soil?
Based on Berks County's Loam texture, pH of 5.4, 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 Berks County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Berks County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Berks 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.