Fayette County Soil Data
Fayette County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Fayette County, Indiana
Alfisols and Ideal pH Levels
Fayette County features Alfisols with a dominant silt loam texture and a pH of 6.39. This pH is very close to the national median of 6.5 and well above the Indiana average. These forest-derived soils are known for their natural productivity and balanced chemistry.
Silt Loam: The Ideal Balance
With 60.2% silt and 18.8% clay, the soil offers a classic silt loam profile that is highly prized by farmers. The 21.0% sand content provides just enough aeration to prevent compaction. This mix ensures excellent nutrient retention and a stable root environment.
Strong Water Storage, Lower Matter
Available water capacity is high at 0.214 in/in, exceeding the state average of 0.202. However, organic matter is relatively low at 2.28% compared to the 4.90% state average. This gives the county a respectable soil score of 75.2, indicating solid agricultural potential.
Reliable Well-Drained Landscapes
The soil is classified as well-drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. This means the ground effectively absorbs rainfall and limits surface runoff. For homeowners and farmers alike, this reduces the risk of standing water and basement flooding.
Productive Gardening in Zone 6a
Fayette County’s well-drained silt loam is perfect for a wide variety of vegetables and flowers in zone 6a. The high water capacity will keep your plants hydrated even during the dog days of summer. Consider adding compost to boost the organic matter and unlock the soil's full potential.
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 Fayette County have?
Fayette County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 21% sand, 60% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Fayette County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Fayette 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 Fayette County?
Fayette 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 Fayette County's soil?
Based on Fayette County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Fayette County?
Fayette 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: Fayette County
Soil Verdict
Fayette 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
Fayette County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Fayette 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.