Winchester city Soil Data
Winchester city, Virginia
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
5.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Winchester city, Virginia
Winchester's High-Performing Urban Soils
Winchester city boasts a soil score of 57.8, nearly doubling the Virginia state average of 30.6. The average pH of 5.81 is more alkaline than the state average of 5.23, though it remains below the national median of 6.5.
Silt-Driven Soil Texture
The city's soil is composed of 46.1% silt, 26.6% sand, and 21.5% clay. This silty mix offers excellent workability for gardeners while providing better nutrient retention than sandy coastal soils.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
At 5.64%, the organic matter in Winchester is nearly triple the national average of 2.0%. This richness, combined with an available water capacity of 0.161 in/in, creates a highly fertile environment for plant growth.
Reliable Moisture Management
While specific drainage classes are not recorded for this area, the high water capacity suggests the soil holds moisture effectively. This trait is beneficial for maintaining lush green spaces in an urban setting during dry spells.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 7a
Winchester's climate and rich soil are ideal for growing apples, pears, and hardy perennials. Gardeners should take advantage of the superior organic content to start a productive backyard vegetable plot.
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 5.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Winchester city have?
Winchester city's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 46% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Winchester city's soil acidic or alkaline?
Winchester city's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Winchester city?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Winchester city.
What crops or plants grow well in Winchester city's soil?
Based on Winchester city's Loam texture, pH of 5.8, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Winchester city?
The dominant USDA soil order for Winchester city is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Winchester city
Soil Verdict
Winchester city is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Winchester city closely matches the Virginia average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Winchester city on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Virginia
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.