Lycoming County Soil Data
Lycoming County, Pennsylvania
Avg pH
5.1
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
13.0%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania
Acidic Inceptisols Define the River Valley
Lycoming's silt loam soils belong to the Inceptisol order, indicating a relatively young geological profile. The average pH sits at 5.15, which is more acidic than both the state average of 5.22 and the national median of 6.5. This low pH level often requires lime amendments for most traditional row crops.
A Silty Mix with Moderate Texture
The soil contains 39.8% silt, 30.5% sand, and 14.2% clay, creating a classic silt loam texture. This balance offers a good middle ground for workability, though the higher silt content makes the ground prone to erosion if left uncovered. The low clay percentage suggests that while the soil doesn't bake hard, it lacks high natural mineral retention.
Rich Organic Matter Boosts Growth
With an organic matter content of 13.03%, Lycoming exceeds the state average of 12.14% and dwarfs the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.156 in/in further supports plant health by holding slightly more moisture than the typical Pennsylvania soil. These numbers indicate a high biological potential for both forestry and agriculture.
Navigating Very Poorly Drained Grounds
The county's dominant soils are classified as very poorly drained and fall under hydrologic group B/D. This means the water table is often near the surface, posing significant challenges for basement construction and heavy machinery use. Farmers here must often rely on tiling or specialized water management to prevent root rot.
Tending the Valley in Zone 6a
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, Lycoming is ideal for cool-weather vegetables and hardy fruit trees like apples. The rich organic matter supports a vibrant growing season for those who manage the acidic pH and high water table. It is a prime environment for starting a productive home vegetable garden or a small orchard.
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
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lycoming County have?
Lycoming County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 40% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lycoming County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lycoming County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Lycoming County?
Lycoming County has a dominant drainage class of "Very poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Lycoming County's soil?
Based on Lycoming County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.1, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Lycoming County?
Lycoming 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.
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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.