Franklin County Soil Data
Franklin County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Franklin County, Indiana
Sandy Loam Alfisols of Franklin
Franklin County features sandy loam Alfisols with a pH of 6.37, which is healthier than the state average of 6.08. These soils formed under hardwood forests and are naturally productive. The county earns a respectable soil score of 71.1, reflecting its solid agricultural utility.
A Silt-Dominant Sandy Loam
The soil mix includes 55.6% silt and 25.6% sand, with 18.7% clay. Despite the 'sandy loam' label, the high silt content provides the bulk of the soil's structure. This texture is generally easy to till and provides a good anchor for deep-rooted plants.
Steady Moisture and Moderate Fertility
Organic matter is lower than the state average at 2.29%, but the available water capacity of 0.201 in/in is almost exactly at the Indiana average. This means the soil is reliable at holding onto rainfall. Farmers often use cover crops here to build up the naturally modest organic matter levels.
Superior Drainage in Group A
This county is characterized by well-drained soils belonging to hydrologic group A. Group A soils have high infiltration rates and low runoff potential, even when thoroughly wet. This makes Franklin County an excellent location for projects that require dry ground, from orchards to construction.
Success in Zone 6a Soils
Zone 6a gardeners in Franklin County benefit from excellent drainage, which prevents root rot in many ornamental species. The soil's neutral pH allows for a vast palette of vegetables and fruit trees. With regular organic additions, your Franklin County garden will be the envy of the neighborhood.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Sandy Soil Detected
Sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out. These products boost water retention and organic matter.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Franklin County have?
Franklin County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 56% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Franklin County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Franklin 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 Franklin County?
Franklin 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 Franklin County's soil?
Based on Franklin County's Sandy 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 Franklin County?
Franklin 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: Franklin County
Soil Verdict
Franklin 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
Franklin County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Franklin 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.