Clarion County Soil Data
Clarion County, Pennsylvania
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
19.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Clarion County, Pennsylvania
Classic Pennsylvania acidity in Clarion
Clarion County has a soil pH of 5.20, which sits right at the state average of 5.22. This is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This pH level is typical for the region and generally requires management for optimal vegetable production.
High silt content for easy tilling
The soil composition is 25.7% sand, 44.9% silt, and 13.4% clay. This high silt percentage makes the soil easy to work and provides a soft medium for root crops. The low clay content helps prevent the soil from becoming overly hard and cracked during dry spells.
Very high organic matter content
Organic matter in Clarion County is a high 19.59%, well above both state and national averages. However, the available water capacity is 0.126 inches per inch, which is lower than the state average of 0.151. This suggests the soil is nutrient-rich but may require frequent watering during the peak of summer.
Managing water on the plateau
Data for the dominant drainage class and hydrologic group is not currently available for Clarion County. The combination of high organic matter and lower water capacity suggests that water may move through the soil profile quickly. Local gardeners should monitor soil moisture levels closely during dry weeks.
Cool-season favorites for Zone 6a
Clarion County is located in Hardiness Zone 6a, which is perfect for cool-weather crops like broccoli, peas, and leafy greens. The high organic matter provides an excellent nutrient base for a thriving vegetable patch. Start your seeds now to enjoy a productive Pennsylvania growing season.
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 Clarion County have?
Clarion County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 45% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Clarion County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Clarion County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Clarion County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Clarion County.
What crops or plants grow well in Clarion County's soil?
Based on Clarion County's Loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Clarion County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Clarion County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Clarion 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.