Wyoming County Soil Data

Wyoming County, Pennsylvania

Avg pH

5.2

Texture

Gravelly sandy loam

Drainage

Somewhat excessively drained

Organic Matter

22.3%

Hydrologic Group

A

Data Story

About Soil in Wyoming County, Pennsylvania

Young Inceptisols define the Wyoming landscape

Wyoming County features Inceptisols with a pH of 5.23, which is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This gravelly sandy loam represents a relatively young soil profile that aligns closely with the Pennsylvania state average of 5.22.

Coarse texture ensures rapid water movement

A mix of 29.2% sand and only 11.7% clay creates a gravelly texture that is easy to work but can dry out quickly. With 36.3% silt, the soil maintains enough body to prevent total nutrient leaching during wet seasons.

High water capacity and rich nutrients

The soil offers an impressive available water capacity of 0.203 in/in, which is much higher than the state average of 0.151 in/in. Combined with a robust 22.27% organic matter content, this soil provides a fertile, moisture-retentive environment for diverse plant life.

Exceptional drainage for wet climates

Classified as somewhat excessively drained, this soil belongs to hydrologic group A, indicating high infiltration rates and low runoff risk. This makes Wyoming's land excellent for preventing standing water, though gardeners may need to water more frequently during dry spells.

Thriving in the cool Zone 6a

The 6a hardiness zone supports short-season vegetables and hardy fruit trees that can withstand colder winters. The excellent drainage and high organic matter offer a premium start for any home orchard or backyard garden bed.

Soil Composition

Gravelly sandy loam
Sand: 29.2%
Silt: 36.3%
Clay: 11.7%
Gravelly sandy loam

Soil pH

5.2pH
5.22514063835631
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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.

Runoff potential:Low

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Wyoming County have?

Wyoming County's soil is classified as Gravelly sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 36% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Wyoming County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Wyoming 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 Wyoming County?

Wyoming 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 Wyoming County's soil?

Based on Wyoming County's Gravelly sandy loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Wyoming County?

Wyoming 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.

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.