Clinton County Soil Data
Clinton County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
5.4%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Clinton County, Indiana
Elite Silt Loam in Clinton
Clinton County boasts high-quality Alfisols with a silt loam texture and a pH of 6.27. This pH level is closer to the national median than most neighbors, making it hospitable to a wide variety of plant species.
Ideal Texture for Farming
A robust 56.9% silt and 19.4% clay mix defines the structure, supported by 20.3% sand. This classic silt loam composition is prized by farmers for its perfect balance of workability and water storage.
Superior Organic Wealth
The organic matter content is an impressive 5.41%, easily surpassing the Indiana state average of 4.90%. Paired with a high 0.213 in/in available water capacity, this county offers some of the best growing potential in the state.
Reliable and Balanced Drainage
Classified as well-drained and part of hydrologic group B, these soils manage water efficiently without stripping nutrients. This resilience makes the land highly dependable for both large-scale agriculture and domestic landscaping.
A Gardener’s Dream Location
With an elite soil score of 83.1, Clinton County is a premier spot for zone 6a gardening. High nutrient density and excellent moisture capacity mean your squash, beans, and greens will thrive with minimal extra effort.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Clinton County have?
Clinton County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 57% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Clinton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Clinton 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 Clinton County?
Clinton County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Clinton County's soil?
Based on Clinton County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Clinton County?
Clinton County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Clinton County
Soil Verdict
Clinton County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Clinton County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Clinton 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.