Floyd County Soil Data
Floyd County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Floyd County, Indiana
Southern Silt and Moderate Acidity
Floyd County soils have a pH of 5.97, leaning slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.08. This profile results in a soil score of 65.5, which is common for the rolling hills of Southern Indiana. These conditions require careful monitoring for plants sensitive to low pH levels.
A Landscape Dominated by Silt
The soil is extremely silt-heavy at 70.8%, with only 10.6% sand and 18.6% clay. This high silt concentration creates a very smooth texture that holds onto moisture tightly. It is less abrasive than sandy soils but can become slippery and prone to erosion on slopes.
Excellent Water Reserves
Available water capacity is a strong 0.212 in/in, which is better than the Indiana average of 0.202. Organic matter is low at 2.12%, matching the national average but trailing the state average. This soil effectively stores the rain it receives, providing a buffer for your plants.
Hydrology of the Silt Plains
While specific drainage class data is not available, soils with 70% silt typically exhibit moderate to slow drainage. The lack of sand means water moves slowly through the soil profile. Gardeners on slopes should be mindful of runoff during the heavy rains common to Floyd County.
Extended Growing in Zone 6b
Enjoy the warmer climate of zone 6b, where the high water capacity supports a long growing season. Silt-heavy soils are excellent for leafy greens and many native Indiana perennials. Start a compost pile today to help enrich these moisture-rich southern soils.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
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 6.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Floyd County have?
Floyd County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 11% sand, 71% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Floyd County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Floyd County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Floyd County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Floyd County.
What crops or plants grow well in Floyd County's soil?
Based on Floyd County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.0, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Floyd County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Floyd County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Floyd County
Soil Verdict
Floyd 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
Floyd County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Floyd 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.