Blackford County Soil Data
Blackford County, Indiana
Avg pH
6.4
Texture
Silty clay
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
4.7%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Blackford County, Indiana
Heavy Clay Mollisols in Blackford
Blackford County is characterized by silty clay Mollisols and an average pH of 6.36. This pH is very close to the 6.5 national median, making it highly hospitable for most plants. The county earns a solid 79.7 soil score, reflecting its strong agricultural potential.
High Clay for Nutrient Storage
With 30.6% clay, this soil is heavier than many of its neighbors, providing excellent storage for plant nutrients. The 45.9% silt and 20.5% sand mix creates a dense medium that can be challenging to work when wet. Patience is required in the spring to avoid compacting this mineral-rich ground.
Abundant Organic Matter and Moisture
At 4.71% organic matter, Blackford County soil is very rich compared to the 2.0% national average. The available water capacity is 0.199, which is just slightly under the state average of 0.202. This ensures a steady supply of nutrients and hydration for garden roots.
Managing Very Poorly Drained Soils
The county's soil is classified as very poorly drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group C/D. Water tends to linger in these soils, which can be a challenge for building but a benefit during dry Indiana summers. Proper drainage management is essential for maximizing the productivity of this land.
Lush Cool-Weather Crops in Zone 6a
Zone 6a is ideal for cool-weather crops like broccoli, peas, and leafy greens. The high clay content provides your plants with plenty of minerals to grow strong and healthy. Start a garden and enjoy the benefits of some of Indiana's most nutrient-dense 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
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Blackford County have?
Blackford County's soil is classified as Silty clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 46% silt, and 31% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Blackford County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Blackford 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 Blackford County?
Blackford County has a dominant drainage class of "Very 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 Blackford County's soil?
Based on Blackford County's Silty clay texture, pH of 6.4, and Very 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 Blackford County?
Blackford 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Blackford 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.