Wayne County Soil Data
Wayne County, Pennsylvania
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.9
Texture
Gravelly sandy loam
Drainage
Somewhat excessively drained
Organic Matter
26.7%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Wayne County, Pennsylvania
Highly Acidic Inceptisols
Wayne County features Inceptisols with a very low pH of 4.90, making it significantly more acidic than the state average of 5.22. This level is far below the national median of 6.5, which strongly favors acid-loving plants.
Gravelly Loam Workability
Gravelly sandy loam is the dominant texture, containing 29.7% sand and only 10.3% clay. This coarse mix ensures easy workability and prevents the soil from becoming overly heavy or sticky during wet weather.
Massive Organic Matter Reserves
The county has a massive 26.66% organic matter content, more than double the Pennsylvania state average. This richness results in a high available water capacity of 0.208 in/in, which is among the best in the state.
Rapid Water Drainage
These soils are somewhat excessively drained and belong to hydrologic group A. Water moves through the soil very quickly, which prevents root rot but may require more frequent irrigation during dry summer spells.
A Berry Grower's Dream
In Zone 6a, Wayne County's acidic, well-drained soil is a paradise for blueberries, raspberries, and azaleas. The incredible organic matter levels provide a perfect foundation for a high-yield vegetable garden.
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
Somewhat excessively drained
Water is removed rapidly. Soils may be droughty and have limited water-holding capacity.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Gravelly sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Wayne County have?
Wayne County's soil is classified as Gravelly sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 26% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Wayne County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Wayne County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Wayne County?
Wayne County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Wayne County's soil?
Based on Wayne County's Gravelly sandy loam texture, pH of 4.9, and Somewhat excessively drained, 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 Wayne County?
Wayne 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Wayne County
Soil Verdict
Wayne 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
Wayne 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 Wayne 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.