Wyoming County Soil Data
Wyoming County, Pennsylvania
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
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 5.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Wyoming County
Soil Verdict
Wyoming 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
Wyoming County closely matches the Pennsylvania average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Wyoming 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.