Dauphin County Soil Data
Dauphin County, Pennsylvania
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Very fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
5.1%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania
Sweet Soils of the Capital
Dauphin County's soil pH of 5.43 is significantly higher than the state average of 5.22. While still acidic compared to the national 6.5 median, these Alfisols are well-positioned for high-yield gardening.
Very Fine Sandy Loam
The soil is characterized as a very fine sandy loam, containing 42.9% silt, 34.5% sand, and 16.0% clay. This high sand percentage makes for excellent aeration and easy tilling, perfect for delicate root systems.
Steady Growth Potential
Organic matter levels reach 5.07%, which is more than double the national average. While the water capacity of 0.138 in/in is slightly below the state average, it still provides enough moisture for most residential crops.
Exceptional Rainfall Management
The county's well-drained soils and hydrologic group B status mean the land handles heavy storms without significant ponding. This natural efficiency simplifies building and landscaping projects across the county.
Thriving in Zone 7a
With the mild climate of zone 7a and sandy loam soil, you can successfully grow everything from carrots to ornamental flowers. Start your seeds early to take full advantage of the long growing season.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Very fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Dauphin County have?
Dauphin County's soil is classified as Very fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 43% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Dauphin County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Dauphin 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 Dauphin County?
Dauphin County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Dauphin County's soil?
Based on Dauphin County's Very fine sandy loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Dauphin County?
Dauphin County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Dauphin 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.