Orange County Soil Data
Orange County, Vermont
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
13.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Orange County, Vermont
Acidic Profiles in the Green Mountains
Orange County features a highly acidic soil profile with an average pH of 4.88, significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic data is limited, this acidity defines the chemical environment for all local vegetation. It mirrors the state average of 4.86, reflecting the region's typical mountain soil chemistry.
A Gritty and Workable Mix
The soil is comprised of 45.4% sand and 31.8% silt, creating a gritty texture that is easy to work. With only 5.6% clay, the soil lacks the heavy compaction found in other regions but may struggle to bind certain nutrients. This high sand content suggests that the ground warms up quickly in the spring.
High Organic Matter, Lower Storage
At 13.58%, organic matter is nearly seven times the national average of 2.0%, though it sits below the state average of 29.01%. The available water capacity is 0.170 in/in, which is lower than the Vermont average of 0.235 in/in. This suggests that while the soil is carbon-rich, it holds less moisture for crops during dry spells.
Managing Water in Sandy Terrain
Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are not available for this county. However, the high sand percentage typically indicates rapid drainage, which prevents root rot but may require more frequent irrigation. Builders and farmers should perform site-specific tests to confirm local water movement.
Growing in Zone 5a
Orange County sits in hardiness zone 5a, making it ideal for cold-hardy perennials and short-season vegetables. Blueberries and potatoes will thrive in this acidic environment with very little amendment. Start your garden with these acid-loving staples to take advantage of the natural soil chemistry.
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 4.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Orange County have?
Orange County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 45% sand, 32% silt, and 6% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Orange County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Orange 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 Orange County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Orange County.
What crops or plants grow well in Orange County's soil?
Based on Orange County's Loam texture, pH of 4.9, 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 Orange County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Orange County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Orange County
Soil Verdict
Orange County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°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. With extreme winter lows, any marginally hardy plants need heavy mulch and wind protection. 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
Orange County closely matches the Vermont average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 4b-5a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Orange County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Vermont
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.