Daviess County Soil Data
Daviess County, Indiana
Avg pH
6.1
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.2%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Daviess County, Indiana
Rich Mollisols of Daviess County
Daviess County features Mollisol soils with a silty clay loam texture and a pH of 6.08. This pH exactly matches the Indiana state average, providing a standard chemical environment for Midwestern agricultural crops.
Heavy Silty Clay Texture
The mix contains 62.2% silt and 18.1% clay, creating a nutrient-dense but heavy soil profile. With only 19.8% sand, the soil can feel thick and may require careful timing to avoid working it when too wet.
Steady Moisture Reserves
The organic matter content stands at 2.17%, which is slightly higher than the national average. Available water capacity is measured at 0.198 in/in, providing a moderate reservoir that supports steady plant growth during the summer.
Managing Poorly Drained Ground
These soils are poorly drained and belong to the C/D hydrologic group, meaning they often retain water for long periods. Gardeners here should consider raised beds or tile drainage to prevent roots from becoming waterlogged.
Moisture-Loving Crops Flourish
In zone 6b, this heavy silty clay loam is excellent for crops that enjoy consistent moisture, like pumpkins and melons. Success in Daviess County comes from managing the 62.6-score soil and gradually building organic matter.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Daviess County have?
Daviess County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 62% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Daviess County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Daviess County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Daviess County?
Daviess 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 Daviess County's soil?
Based on Daviess County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.1, 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 Daviess County?
Daviess 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 Daviess 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.