DeKalb County Soil Data
DeKalb County, Indiana
Avg pH
6.4
Texture
Silty clay
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
6.3%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in DeKalb County, Indiana
A Rich Mollisol Foundation in DeKalb
DeKalb County features silty clay Mollisols with a pH of 6.40, nearly matching the national median of 6.5. These grassland-derived soils are less acidic than the Indiana average of 6.08. This neutral balance creates a welcoming environment for standard agricultural crops.
A Balanced Mix of Silt and Clay
The soil contains 38.0% sand, 36.7% silt, and 19.4% clay. This mixture provides enough structure to retain nutrients while preventing the extreme density of pure clay. Farmers find this blend workable but heavy during wet seasons.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
The organic matter content sits at a high 6.32%, far exceeding the state average of 4.90% and the national 2.0% benchmark. While the water capacity of 0.195 in/in is slightly below the Indiana average, the high fertility drives a strong soil score of 81.6.
Managing Very Poorly Drained Lands
Classified as very poorly drained with a C/D hydrologic group, these soils require careful water management. High water tables are common, meaning drainage tiles are often essential for successful farming or building. This slow drainage necessitates patience during rainy spring planting windows.
Ideal Conditions for Zone 6a Gardening
In hardiness zone 6a, DeKalb’s nutrient-dense soils are perfect for heavy feeders like corn and tomatoes. The high organic matter means your garden starts with a natural advantage. Start your seeds early to make the most of this high-scoring 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 DeKalb County have?
DeKalb County's soil is classified as Silty clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 38% sand, 37% silt, and 19% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is DeKalb County's soil acidic or alkaline?
DeKalb 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 DeKalb County?
DeKalb 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 DeKalb County's soil?
Based on DeKalb 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 DeKalb County?
DeKalb 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 DeKalb 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.