Harford County Area, Maryland
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is B (moderate infiltration). This report summarizes the major soil map units across the survey area to help you understand what to expect when buying, building, or gardening in Harford County Area, Maryland.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chester silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 21K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Water | 19K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Glenelg loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 12K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Glenelg loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes | 11K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Neshaminy silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, moderately eroded | 9K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Glenville silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 8K | Moderately well drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Codorus silt loam | 7K | Moderately well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Manor loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes | 7K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Montalto silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, moderately eroded | 7K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Manor channery loam, 15 to 25 percent slopes | 6K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Manor loam, 15 to 25 percent slopes | 6K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Manor soils, 25 to 45 percent slopes | 5K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Neshaminy and Montalto very stony silt loams 0 to 15 percent slopes | 5K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Aldino silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 5K | Moderately well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Chester silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes | 5K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Glenelg gravelly loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes, moderately eroded | 5K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Manor channery loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes | 4K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Hatboro-Codorus complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes, frequently flooded | 3K | Poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Hatboro silt loam | 3K | Poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Manor very stony loam, 25 to 45 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 31% of soils have significant building limitations, while the rest are generally suitable. Check specific sites carefully — conditions vary across the area.
Septic Systems
About 70% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. Despite good drainage overall, limitations may stem from shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or seasonal conditions. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Well-drained soils on sloped terrain — good for most plants but watch for erosion. Terracing, contour planting, and mulching help retain moisture and topsoil. Drip irrigation is more effective than sprinklers on slopes.