Adams County Soil Data

Adams County, Indiana

Avg pH

6.4

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

4.5%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Adams County, Indiana

Prime Agricultural Ground in Adams County

Adams County features a respectable 6.39 pH, sitting just below the national median of 6.5 and above the state average of 6.08. While taxonomic data is limited, the county earns a high overall soil score of 83.5. This indicates a robust mineral base suitable for intensive regional farming.

Silt-Heavy Mix for Water Retention

The soil composition is 48.7% silt and 26.0% clay, creating a heavy texture that holds nutrients well. With only 22.8% sand, this mixture can be prone to compaction if worked while wet. Proper management ensures this dense profile remains productive throughout the year.

High Organic Matter and Water Capacity

Organic matter stands at 4.50%, more than double the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.208 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.202, providing an excellent reservoir for crops during dry spells. This combination makes for highly fertile, resilient land.

Managing Dense, Heavy Soil

Specific drainage class data is limited for this area, but the high silt and clay levels suggest naturally slow water movement. Farmers in the region typically use careful management to navigate the soil's dense structure. The 83.5 soil score reflects a landscape that rewards consistent stewardship.

Gardening Success in Zone 6a

In Hardiness Zone 6a, you can successfully grow everything from hearty kale to sweet corn. The high-scoring soil is primed for high-yield harvests, so start your garden today. Choose crops that appreciate consistent moisture and rich mineral content.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 22.8%
Silt: 48.7%
Clay: 26.0%
Loam

Soil pH

6.4pH
6.39420006119028
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 Adams County have?

Adams County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 49% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Adams County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Adams County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Adams County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Adams County.

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

Based on Adams County's Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Adams County?

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

Other Counties in Indiana

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.