Crawford County Soil Data
Crawford County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.8
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Somewhat excessively drained
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Crawford County, Indiana
Acidic Ultisols of Crawford County
Crawford County features Ultisol soils with a silt loam texture and a fairly acidic 5.81 pH. This acidity level is lower than the Indiana state average of 6.08 and the 6.5 national median, often requiring lime to balance for vegetables.
Fine-Textured Silt Profiles
The soil is composed of 66.3% silt and 17.3% clay, with a relatively low sand content of 16.5%. This silty makeup provides a smooth feel and creates a soil profile that holds onto moisture effectively throughout the year.
Consistent Moisture Retention
Organic matter reaches 2.42%, which is above the national average but below the 4.90% state norm. The available water capacity is strong at 0.205 in/in, offering a better moisture buffer for plants than the average Indiana soil.
Fast Movement, High Capacity
Classified as somewhat excessively drained in hydrologic group C, these soils move water quickly through the upper layers. While they drain fast, the high silt content ensures they don't dry out as rapidly as purely sandy soils.
Home for Acid-Loving Plants
Located in zone 6b, this county is ideal for berries and acid-loving ornamentals like azaleas. Despite a lower 62.9 overall soil score, the high water capacity makes it a very reliable environment for summer gardens.
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
Somewhat excessively drained
Water is removed rapidly. Soils may be droughty and have limited water-holding capacity.
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 5.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Crawford County have?
Crawford County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 66% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Crawford County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Crawford County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Crawford County?
Crawford County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Crawford County's soil?
Based on Crawford County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.8, and Somewhat excessively drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Crawford County?
Crawford County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Crawford County
Soil Verdict
Crawford 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
Crawford County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Crawford 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.