Potter County Soil Data
Potter County, Pennsylvania
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
28.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Potter County, Pennsylvania
Acidic High-Altitude Soils
Potter County features acidic soil with a pH of 5.13, nearly matching the Pennsylvania average of 5.22. This is significantly more acidic than the 6.5 national median commonly found in the Midwest.
Light and Silty Texture
The soil is composed of 33.5% silt and 21.7% sand, with a low clay fraction of 10.8%. This light texture generally allows for easy digging and root expansion in forested plots.
Massive Organic Carbon Reservoir
Organic matter is exceptionally high at 28.58%, more than double the state average of 12.14%. This richness contributes to an available water capacity of 0.163 in/in, which is higher than the state average.
High Nutrient Holding Capacity
Although specific drainage records are absent, the high organic content helps regulate moisture naturally. Farmers should monitor for high acidity while enjoying the benefits of such high nutrient retention.
Short, Cool Season Success
Located in hardiness zone 5b, Potter County is one of the state's coolest regions. It is an ideal climate for potatoes, brassicas, and other crops that thrive in shorter summers.
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 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Potter County have?
Potter County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 33% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Potter County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Potter 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 Potter County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Potter County.
What crops or plants grow well in Potter County's soil?
Based on Potter County's Loam texture, pH of 5.1, 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 Potter County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Potter County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Potter County
Soil Verdict
Potter 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
Potter County is somewhat cooler than the Pennsylvania statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Potter 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.