McKean County Soil Data
McKean County, Pennsylvania
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
23.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in McKean County, Pennsylvania
Sharp Acidity in the Northern Highlands
McKean County faces a notably acidic environment with an average pH of 4.98. This is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5 and even falls below the Pennsylvania state average of 5.22. Such high acidity typically limits the natural availability of essential nutrients like phosphorus and magnesium.
Light Textures with Low Clay
The soil composition features 37.4% silt and 21.1% sand, balanced by a relatively low 12.9% clay. This light texture generally makes the soil easy to till and work with hand tools. However, the lack of clay means the soil has less structural integrity and lower natural nutrient-holding capacity than heavier soils.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
McKean boasts a massive 23.37% organic matter content, nearly double the state average of 12.14%. Despite this richness, the available water capacity is just 0.121 in/in, which is lower than the state average of 0.151 in/in. This suggests that while the soil is carbon-rich, it may struggle to retain water during dry spells.
Limited Data on Local Drainage
Current comprehensive data for the county's dominant drainage class and hydrologic group is unavailable. Local observers generally find variable conditions across the plateau that require site-specific testing. Gardeners should monitor their own plots for standing water or rapid drying to determine their specific needs.
Hardy Growing in Zone 5b
As one of Pennsylvania's colder regions in Zone 5b, McKean requires plants that can withstand deep winters. The incredibly high organic matter provides a great foundation for blueberries and other acid-loving berries. With a bit of lime to balance the pH, your garden can become a highly productive northern oasis.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does McKean County have?
McKean County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 21% sand, 37% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is McKean County's soil acidic or alkaline?
McKean County's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for McKean County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for McKean County.
What crops or plants grow well in McKean County's soil?
Based on McKean County's Loam texture, pH of 5.0, and drainage class, 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 McKean County?
The dominant USDA soil order for McKean County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: McKean County
Soil Verdict
McKean County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°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
McKean County is somewhat cooler than the Pennsylvania statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for McKean 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.