Lancaster County Soil Data
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.7
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
Sweeter soils in Pennsylvania's garden
Lancaster County boasts an average pH of 5.75, which is notably higher and less acidic than the state average of 5.22. While still below the national median of 6.5, these soils are some of the most productive in the region. The county's soil score of 51.1 reflects this strong agricultural foundation.
Silt-heavy soils for nutrient retention
The composition is dominated by 51.1% silt and 30.6% sand, with 17.1% clay. This high silt percentage provides a smooth texture that holds nutrients effectively while remaining easier to till than pure clay. It represents a classic agricultural mix prized by local farmers.
Strong water storage despite lower organic matter
Organic matter sits at 2.71%, which is above the national average of 2.0% but lower than the Pennsylvania state average. Despite this, the available water capacity is a robust 0.172 in/in, exceeding the state average of 0.151 in/in. This ensures crops have steady access to water throughout the summer.
Consistent moisture for the plains
While specific drainage classes are not provided in this dataset, the high silt and moderate clay suggest balanced moisture retention. Growers should monitor for surface crusting, which is common in silt-heavy soils after heavy rains. These soils typically support intensive cultivation with proper management.
Bountiful harvests in Zone 7a
As a 7a zone, Lancaster offers a long, warm window for growing everything from corn to heirloom tomatoes. The high water capacity and favorable pH make this an ideal spot for a productive home vegetable garden. Join the local tradition and start planting this spring.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lancaster County have?
Lancaster County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 51% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lancaster County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lancaster County's soil has a pH of 5.7, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Lancaster County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Lancaster County.
What crops or plants grow well in Lancaster County's soil?
Based on Lancaster County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.7, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Lancaster County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Lancaster County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lancaster County
Soil Verdict
Lancaster County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Lancaster County is somewhat warmer than the Pennsylvania statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lancaster 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.