Carbon County Soil Data
Carbon County, Pennsylvania
Avg pH
4.9
Texture
Channery silt loam
Drainage
Somewhat excessively drained
Organic Matter
12.2%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Carbon County, Pennsylvania
Highly acidic Inceptisols dominate
Carbon County features Inceptisols, which are relatively young soils with a very acidic pH of 4.86. This is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5 and even the state average of 5.22. Most crops will require significant lime to balance the soil for healthy growth.
Channery silt loam provides unique texture
The soil is classified as a channery silt loam, containing 30.8% sand, 40.1% silt, and 14.1% clay. The term 'channery' indicates the presence of flat, thin rock fragments that can make digging difficult. This mix ensures the soil doesn't compact too easily but may be tough on garden tools.
Rich organic matter meets state norms
Organic matter content is 12.21%, aligning almost perfectly with the Pennsylvania state average. The available water capacity of 0.145 inches per inch is slightly below the state benchmark of 0.151. This suggests a fertile soil that holds nutrients well but may dry out faster than average during summer.
Excellent drainage and high infiltration
The soil is somewhat excessively drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group A. This means water moves through the soil very quickly, which is great for preventing root rot but increases the need for irrigation. It is an ideal profile for building foundations due to its low runoff and rapid drainage.
Success in the Pocono foothills
Located in Zone 6b, Carbon County enjoys a slightly milder climate than its neighbors to the north. Acid-loving plants like blueberries and rhododendrons thrive naturally in these conditions. With proper pH management, your garden can become a lush mountain oasis.
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: Channery silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Carbon County have?
Carbon County's soil is classified as Channery silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 40% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Carbon County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Carbon County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Carbon County?
Carbon 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 Carbon County's soil?
Based on Carbon County's Channery silt loam texture, pH of 4.9, 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 Carbon County?
Carbon County's dominant soil order is Inceptisols. Inceptisols are young soils with weak horizon development. They occur in a wide range of climates and parent materials.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Carbon 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.