Floyd County Soil Data

Floyd County, Indiana

Avg 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

Silt Loam
Sand: 10.6%
Silt: 70.8%
Clay: 18.6%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.0pH
5.97392140306398
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently 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.

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.