Hancock County Soil Data
Hancock County, Indiana
Avg pH
6.3
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
4.9%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Hancock County, Indiana
Elite clay loam Mollisols define Hancock
Hancock County features productive clay loam soils from the prestigious Mollisols order. With an average pH of 6.26, the soil is less acidic than the state average and approaches the 6.5 national median. These characteristics contribute to an impressive overall soil score of 81.9.
Heavy textures provide strong nutrient beds
The soil is composed of 52.5% silt, 22.3% sand, and 21.8% clay. This high clay and silt combination makes for a heavy, nutrient-rich earth that holds its shape well. It provides a stable environment for large-scale crops but can be prone to compaction if worked while wet.
High water capacity meets state standards
Hancock's organic matter content is 4.89%, perfectly aligning with the Indiana average of 4.90%. Its available water capacity of 0.212 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.202. This means the soil acts like a sponge, keeping moisture available for plants even when rain is scarce.
Poor drainage requires managed water flow
The county's soils are predominantly poorly drained and fall into hydrologic group B/D. This requires farmers and homeowners to use drainage solutions like tiles or rain gardens to manage excess water. Proper water management is key to unlocking the soil's high agricultural potential.
Thriving yields in Hardiness Zone 6a
As a 6a zone, Hancock is well-suited for traditional Indiana staples like corn, beans, and hardy fruit trees. The moisture-retentive clay loam is also excellent for late-season crops that need a steady water supply. Start your seeds early to make the most of this high-scoring land.
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: Clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Hancock County have?
Hancock County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 53% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hancock County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hancock County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Hancock County?
Hancock 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 Hancock County's soil?
Based on Hancock County's Clay loam texture, pH of 6.3, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Hancock County?
Hancock 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.
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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.