Brown County Soil Data
Brown County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.7
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Brown County, Indiana
Acidic Forest Soils of Brown County
Brown County features Entisols with a pH of 5.69, which is significantly more acidic than the national 6.5 median. This acidity is a defining characteristic of the region's rugged, forested hills. While it ranks lower with a 61.6 soil score, it is perfectly suited for native woodland ecology.
The State's Highest Silt Percentage
With a massive 68.6% silt content, this soil has a very fine, flour-like consistency. Combined with 15.2% clay and 16.2% sand, this soil is prone to erosion on the county's famous slopes. Careful ground cover management is required to keep this silty soil in place.
Vital Moisture for Steep Terrain
Available water capacity is high at 0.209, providing a critical reservoir for the county's dense forest cover. Organic matter stands at 2.40%, which is above the 2.0% national average despite being lower than the Indiana state average. This moisture retention is the lifeline for the local ecosystem during dry periods.
Managing Runoff in the Hills
Drainage data is limited, but the combination of high silt and steep topography typically leads to rapid surface runoff. Mulching and terracing are highly recommended for any local gardening projects. Protecting the soil surface is essential for maintaining the health of your land.
Zone 6b: A Haven for Acid-Lovers
In Zone 6b, the acidic soil is perfectly suited for blueberries, azaleas, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons. Lean into the unique chemistry of the hills and plant a beautiful, acid-loving landscape. Your garden can thrive if you choose species adapted to these specific forest conditions.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Brown County have?
Brown County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 69% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Brown County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Brown County's soil has a pH of 5.7, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Brown County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Brown County.
What crops or plants grow well in Brown County's soil?
Based on Brown County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.7, 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 Brown County?
Brown 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: Brown County
Soil Verdict
Brown 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
Brown County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Brown 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.