Orleans County Soil Data
Orleans County, Vermont
Avg pH
4.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
43.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Orleans County, Vermont
Deeply Acidic Northern Soils
Orleans County has an average pH of 4.53, which is far more acidic than the 6.5 national median. This intense acidity is a hallmark of the northern Vermont landscape and influences nutrient availability. Local growers must manage this sharp chemistry to maintain productive pastures and gardens.
Low Clay for Easy Digging
The soil composition is 37.9% sand and 23.4% silt, providing a medium that is generally easy to cultivate. A very low clay content of 4.0% means the soil rarely becomes sticky or heavy when wet. This mix favors aeration and root penetration for most native plant species.
Incredible Organic Richness
The county boasts an organic matter content of 43.28%, dwarfing the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 29.01%. This richness drives a high available water capacity of 0.284 in/in, which is well above the state average. This combination provides a fertile, moisture-rich foundation for local agriculture.
Natural Sponges in the Landscape
While official drainage and hydrologic data are limited, the massive organic matter content likely acts as a natural sponge. This helps the soil manage heavy rainfall despite the low clay fraction that usually aids in structural stability. These soils are excellent for carbon sequestration and forest health.
Success in Hardiness Zone 4b
As a zone 4b region, Orleans County requires crops that can handle a shorter, cooler growing season. Leafy greens, brassicas, and cold-tolerant berries are excellent choices for this fertile, organic soil. With a high soil score of 66.9, your garden is set up for success if you choose the right varieties.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Orleans County have?
Orleans County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 38% sand, 23% silt, and 4% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Orleans County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Orleans County's soil has a low pH of 4.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Orleans County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Orleans County.
What crops or plants grow well in Orleans County's soil?
Based on Orleans County's Loam texture, pH of 4.5, 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 Orleans County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Orleans County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Orleans 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.