Benton County Soil Data
Benton County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Benton County
Soil Verdict
Benton County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°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
Benton County is somewhat cooler than the Indiana statewide average. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Benton 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.