Windsor County Soil Data

Windsor County, Vermont

Avg pH

4.4

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

44.1%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Windsor County, Vermont

Sharp Acidity in the Valley

Windsor County has an average pH of 4.38, making it the most acidic in this region and far below the 6.5 national median. This low pH level is a primary factor in local soil management and crop selection. Acid-loving plants will feel right at home in this environment.

Light and Airy Soil Structure

The soil contains 43.1% sand and 26.5% silt, creating a light, airy structure that resists compaction. With only 5.1% clay, the soil offers excellent aeration for root systems. This composition is perfect for crops that prefer well-drained, loose earth.

Abundant Organic Matter Resources

Organic matter is exceptionally high at 44.15%, significantly beating the state average of 29.01%. This supports a strong water capacity of 0.282 in/in, which is higher than the state average of 0.235 in/in. This soil acts as a powerful reservoir for both carbon and moisture.

Sponge-Like Moisture Retention

Although specific hydrologic data is not available, the massive organic content likely dictates how water moves through the soil. This high level of organic material helps the sandy soil hold onto water longer than it would otherwise. It provides a stable moisture level that is ideal for farming and forestry.

Gardening Success in Zone 5a

In hardiness zone 5a, Windsor County is prime territory for New England staples like pumpkins, squash, and apples. The soil score of 66.7 is among the highest in the state, reflecting its great potential. With such high organic matter, your garden will have a natural boost in fertility from the start.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 43.1%
Silt: 26.5%
Clay: 5.1%
Loam

Soil pH

4.4pH
4.38411972269887
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

Hydrologic group data not available.

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: 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 Windsor County have?

Windsor County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 43% sand, 27% silt, and 5% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Windsor County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Windsor County's soil has a low pH of 4.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.

What is the drainage class for Windsor County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Windsor County.

What crops or plants grow well in Windsor County's soil?

Based on Windsor County's Loam texture, pH of 4.4, 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 Windsor County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Windsor County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.