Fulton County Soil Data
Fulton County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
11.7%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Fulton County, Indiana
Acidic Mollisols define Fulton's loamy landscape
Fulton County features a dominant loam texture within the rich Mollisols taxonomic order. Its average pH of 5.35 sits significantly lower than the national median of 6.5, indicating highly acidic conditions. This acidity suggests a need for lime management to optimize local crop yields.
A sand-heavy mix with unique texture
The soil composition contains 56.2% sand, 20.6% silt, and 8.8% clay. This high sand content provides excellent workability and aeration but typically speeds up nutrient leaching. Fortunately, the massive organic matter content helps counteract the coarse sand grains.
Exceptional organic matter drives growing potential
At 11.68%, Fulton's organic matter is more than double the state average of 4.90%. Despite this richness, the available water capacity of 0.181 in/in falls slightly below the Indiana average of 0.202. This means the soil holds nutrients well but dries out faster than neighboring counties.
Poor drainage requires active water management
The county's soil is classified as poorly drained and falls into hydrologic group B/D. These conditions mean the ground stays saturated for long periods without intervention like tiling or raised beds. Builders and farmers must plan for slow runoff and potential seasonal ponding.
Productive gardening in Hardiness Zone 6a
With a 6a hardiness rating, Fulton is ideal for cool-season vegetables and hardy perennials. The high organic matter provides a fantastic base for heavy feeders like corn and squash. Start your garden today to take advantage of some of the most carbon-rich soil in the state.
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
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Fulton County have?
Fulton County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 56% sand, 21% silt, and 9% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Fulton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Fulton County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Fulton County?
Fulton County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Fulton County's soil?
Based on Fulton County's Loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Fulton County?
Fulton 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Fulton County
Soil Verdict
Fulton 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
Fulton County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Fulton 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.