Susquehanna County Soil Data
Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
16.2%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania
Entisols of the Northern Tier
Entisols define Susquehanna County, featuring a pH of 5.38 that is slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.22. While more favorable than some neighbors, it remains well below the national median pH of 6.5.
Versatile Silt Loam Foundations
Silt loam dominates the landscape with 41.7% silt and 12.3% clay content. This balance provides excellent workability for farmers, though the soil requires careful management to avoid heavy compaction.
Exceptional Organic Richness
The county boasts an impressive 16.17% organic matter, far exceeding the Pennsylvania state average of 12.14%. Its available water capacity of 0.184 in/in also outpaces the state norm, signaling high productive potential.
Navigating Poorly Drained Earth
These soils are classified as poorly drained with a complex A/D hydrologic group designation. While good for holding nutrients, these conditions often require raised beds or tile drainage for many agricultural uses.
Abundant Leafy Green Potential
Gardeners in Zone 6a can leverage the high organic matter to produce abundant leafy greens and root crops. The soil's natural moisture-holding ability supports a thriving community garden culture throughout the county.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
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 5.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Susquehanna County have?
Susquehanna County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 42% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Susquehanna County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Susquehanna County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Susquehanna County?
Susquehanna County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Susquehanna County's soil?
Based on Susquehanna County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.4, and 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 Susquehanna County?
Susquehanna 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Susquehanna County
Soil Verdict
Susquehanna 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
Susquehanna County closely matches the Pennsylvania average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Susquehanna 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.