Benton County Soil Data
Benton County, Indiana
Avg pH
6.4
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
4.6%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Benton County, Indiana
Rich Mollisols of the Prairie
Benton County features dark, carbon-rich Mollisols with a silty clay loam texture. Its pH of 6.44 is nearly identical to the national median of 6.5, providing an almost perfect balance for nutrient uptake. This contributes to the county's impressive 84.2 soil score, one of the best in the state.
Dense Mix for High Yields
A composition of 53.7% silt and 22.9% clay creates a dense, nutrient-dense environment for crops. The 22.1% sand content is low, meaning the soil retains water and minerals exceptionally well. This mixture is a hallmark of the productive American Midwest.
World-Class Fertility Levels
The organic matter content of 4.59% is significantly higher than the 2.0% national average. With an available water capacity of 0.206, the soil acts as a massive sponge for crops like corn and soybeans. This high level of fertility makes Benton County an agricultural powerhouse.
Navigating Poorly Drained Ground
These soils are typically poorly drained and fall into Hydrologic Group C/D, meaning water moves slowly. Commercial farming often relies on tile drainage systems here to manage excess moisture. For gardeners, this means moisture-loving native plants will thrive without much extra watering.
Resilient Gardening in Zone 5b
In Zone 5b, you should focus on hearty vegetables and perennials that can handle a slightly shorter season. The rich silty clay loam is perfect for a high-production vegetable patch if you manage the drainage. Your garden will be among the most fertile in Indiana with this world-class soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Benton County have?
Benton County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 54% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Benton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Benton 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 Benton County?
Benton County has a dominant drainage class of "Poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Benton County's soil?
Based on Benton County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.4, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Benton County?
Benton County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
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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.