Winchester city Soil Data

Winchester city, Virginia

Avg 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

Loam
Sand: 26.6%
Silt: 46.1%
Clay: 21.5%
Loam

Soil pH

5.8pH
5.81382092249762
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 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.

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.