Greene County Soil Data
Greene County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Greene County, Indiana
Silt loam Inceptisols define the terrain
Greene County is characterized by silt loam texture and the Inceptisols taxonomic order, signifying young but developing soils. The average pH of 6.02 is almost identical to the Indiana average of 6.08. These soils are slightly acidic but highly adaptable for most Midwestern plant species.
Silt-heavy profile offers great workability
The soil contains 57.2% silt and 23.5% sand, making it easy to till and manage. Clay accounts for 18.0%, providing enough body to prevent the soil from becoming overly erosive. This mix offers a smooth, medium-textured environment that roots can penetrate easily.
Solid water capacity for southern farms
Greene County holds a healthy available water capacity of 0.198 in/in, nearing the state average of 0.202. Organic matter stands at 3.53%, which provides a good biological foundation for plant health. These numbers support a soil score of 69.4, indicating reliable productivity.
Well-drained soils allow for easy building
Unlike much of Indiana, Greene County's dominant soils are well drained and belong to hydrologic group B. This natural drainage reduces the risk of root rot and simplifies construction projects. It is an ideal environment for plants that prefer a drier root zone between rains.
Versatile growing options in Zone 6b
The 6b hardiness zone allows for a diverse range of crops, including longer-season peppers and delicate herbs. The well-drained silt loam is perfect for root vegetables like carrots and parsnips that need loose soil to expand. Start your backyard plot in this forgiving, workable earth.
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 Greene County have?
Greene County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 57% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Greene County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Greene 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 Greene County?
Greene 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 Greene County's soil?
Based on Greene County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.0, 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 Greene County?
Greene County's dominant soil order is Inceptisols. Inceptisols are young soils with weak horizon development. They occur in a wide range of climates and parent materials.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Greene County
Soil Verdict
Greene 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
Greene 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 Greene 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.