The Best Soil Types to Grow Grapes in Maryland

Metamorphic Rock

• Metamorphic rock-based soil can be found primarily in the Piedmont plateau. This is the least desired of the Maryland soils, as it tends to contain bits of rock and bears heavy clay content. Clay soils are known for poor drainage and restrict root growth. Grapes that handle the heavy soil conditions have very strong root systems, such as merlot, chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon.

Lime

• Lime-based soil is among the most favored Maryland soils for vineyards. This soil is found primarily in Northeastern Washington County. It boasts good drainage and a high pH level, essential for good grape production. Reports indicate that all varieties of grapes thrive in lime-based soil.

Sandy

• Sandy soil, commonly found near the Chesapeake Bay area, provides grapes with both well-drained soil and a temperate climate. These factors help grape vines resist disease, as well as boost grape production. All varieties of grapes are reported to thrive well in sandy soils.

Sandstone

• Sandstone soil, rich in minerals, best serves cold hardy varieties of grapes, such as sauvignon and chardonnay grapes. It is typically found in Garrett, Allegany and parts of Washington counties. While other grape varieties thrive in sandstone soil, cold-hardy types produce the best in the climate.

Silt

• Silt soil; typically found in Calvert, Prince George's, St. Mary's and Charles counties, best serves Mediterranean varieties of grape. While it boasts many nutrient rich pockets of soil, this region also contains pockets of very dense soils leading to boggy soil conditions and root binding. Mediterranean grapes tolerate the wet soil conditions best.