Lackawanna County Soil Data
Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.2
Texture
Gravelly sandy loam
Drainage
Somewhat excessively drained
Organic Matter
21.0%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania
Inceptisols define the valley landscape
Lackawanna County is dominated by Inceptisols, which are relatively young soils with an average pH of 5.22. This matches the state average exactly but remains more acidic than the national median of 6.5. These soils provide a decent foundation but often require amendments for optimal vegetable growth.
Gravelly sandy loam textures
The soil is a gravelly sandy loam, composed of 29.0% sand, 35.3% silt, and 11.5% clay. This high sand and gravel content ensures excellent workability and prevents the soil from becoming heavy and compacted. It is an ideal mix for plants that dislike 'wet feet.'
High water capacity and rich organic matter
The organic matter content is high at 21.01%, well above the state average of 12.14%. More impressively, the available water capacity is 0.201 in/in, significantly higher than the state average of 0.151 in/in. This combination creates a very fertile environment with excellent drought resistance.
Swift drainage for dry foundations
The soil is classified as somewhat excessively drained and belongs to hydrologic group A. This means water moves very quickly through the profile, making it excellent for building foundations but requiring frequent watering for shallow-rooted plants. Runoff risks are minimal due to the high infiltration rates.
Thriving in the 6a highlands
In hardiness zone 6a, Lackawanna gardeners can grow robust root vegetables and hardy orchard fruits. The excellent drainage and high organic matter support healthy apple trees and perennial herbs. Get your seeds ready, because this soil score of 66.6 is well above the state average.
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: Gravelly sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lackawanna County have?
Lackawanna County's soil is classified as Gravelly sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 35% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lackawanna County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lackawanna 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 Lackawanna County?
Lackawanna 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 Lackawanna County's soil?
Based on Lackawanna County's Gravelly sandy loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Lackawanna County?
Lackawanna 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lackawanna County
Soil Verdict
Lackawanna County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Lackawanna County closely matches the Pennsylvania average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lackawanna 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.