Northumberland County Soil Data
Northumberland County, Pennsylvania
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
7.0%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania
Silt Loam and Acidic Entisols
Northumberland's soil is dominated by Entisols with a silt loam texture and a pH of 5.22. This acidic profile matches the state average but sits well below the national median of 6.5.
Balanced Silt and Sand Mix
The ground consists of 46.9% silt, 30.2% sand, and 16.2% clay. This mix provides a smooth, workable texture that balances drainage with enough clay to hold onto vital nutrients.
Rich Organic Matter and Moisture
Organic matter levels reach 7.03%, significantly higher than the 2.0% national average. The available water capacity of 0.159 in/in provides excellent moisture storage for local crops compared to the state average of 0.151 in/in.
Managing Poorly Drained Ground
Classified as very poorly drained and falling into hydrologic group B/D, these soils require careful water management. High water tables here can complicate construction and early spring planting schedules.
Hardy Crops for Zone 6b
In USDA hardiness zone 6b, this soil supports robust corn and soybean production. Local gardeners can expect great success with cool-season vegetables and hardy fruit trees.
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 Northumberland County have?
Northumberland County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 47% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Northumberland County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Northumberland 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 Northumberland County?
Northumberland 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 Northumberland County's soil?
Based on Northumberland County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Northumberland County?
Northumberland County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
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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.