Bartholomew County Soil Data
Bartholomew County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Bartholomew County, Indiana
The Young Soils of Bartholomew
Bartholomew County is primarily composed of Entisols, which are relatively young and undeveloped soils. The pH level of 6.27 is slightly below the national median of 6.5 but higher than the Indiana state average. This provides a solid chemical foundation for a wide variety of plant life.
Silty Texture with Low Clay
The soil contains a high 56.7% silt content, giving it a smooth, flour-like feel that holds moisture well. With 25.8% sand and only 17.5% clay, the soil is relatively easy to work but may lack some of the structural strength of heavier soils. Gardeners should focus on building structure to prevent erosion.
Moderate Organic Matter and Reliable Water
Organic matter is lower here at 2.18%, which is just above the national average but well below the Indiana state average of 4.90%. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.203 matches the state average almost exactly. Regular composting can help boost the fertility of this silty landscape.
Silty Soils and Runoff Management
While specific drainage classes are not provided for this area, the high silt percentage often leads to moderate permeability. Local residents should watch for erosion on slopes where the fine soil particles can easily wash away. Managing surface water is key to maintaining the county's 68.5 soil score.
Longer Seasons in Zone 6b
Located in Zone 6b, you enjoy a slightly longer growing season, perfect for heat-loving crops like melons and squash. Even with lower organic matter, the high water capacity makes this a reliable place for a backyard garden. Adding a bit of mulch will help your plants thrive in these silty soils.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Bartholomew County have?
Bartholomew County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 57% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Bartholomew County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Bartholomew County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Bartholomew County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Bartholomew County.
What crops or plants grow well in Bartholomew County's soil?
Based on Bartholomew County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Bartholomew County?
Bartholomew County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Bartholomew County
Soil Verdict
Bartholomew County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. 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
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Bartholomew County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bartholomew County on LawnByCounty.com →
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.