Lawrence County Soil Data
Lawrence County, Pennsylvania
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania
Balanced acidity on the western border
Lawrence County features a soil pH of 5.62, which is more alkaline than the state average of 5.22. It still trends acidic compared to the national median of 6.5, but provides a versatile base for many plants. The overall soil score of 55.5 indicates a higher-than-average quality for the state.
Fine-textured silty landscapes
Silt makes up a majority of the soil at 53.4%, paired with 26.8% sand and 17.6% clay. This high silt content creates a velvety soil that is excellent at holding onto essential plant nutrients. However, it can be prone to compaction if worked while wet.
High water capacity for steady growth
The available water capacity is 0.177 in/in, comfortably beating the state average of 0.151 in/in. Organic matter is 4.07%, which is double the national average of 2.0% but below the high state average. This suggests a soil that is reliable and drought-resistant for local gardeners.
Reliable hydrology for farming
Specific drainage classifications are missing, but the high silt and clay levels suggest the soil holds moisture well. Proper aeration will be important to prevent the silty profile from becoming too dense for delicate roots. Consider raised beds if you notice water pooling in low spots.
Hardy yields in Zone 6a
In Zone 6a, Lawrence County is well-suited for berries, brassicas, and cold-hardy perennials. The superior water capacity means you'll spend less time watering during the peak of summer. It is a fantastic environment to establish a self-sustaining backyard garden.
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 5.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lawrence County have?
Lawrence County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 53% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lawrence County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lawrence County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Lawrence County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Lawrence County.
What crops or plants grow well in Lawrence County's soil?
Based on Lawrence County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.6, 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 Lawrence County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Lawrence County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lawrence County
Soil Verdict
Lawrence 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
Lawrence County closely matches the Pennsylvania average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lawrence 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.