Jackson County Soil Data

Jackson County, Indiana

Avg pH

6.0

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

2.0%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Jackson County, Indiana

Navigating Jackson County's Acidic Silt

Jackson County features a more acidic profile with a pH of 5.96, falling below both the national median and the state average of 6.08. Growers here often monitor lime levels to optimize performance for sensitive crops.

Fine-Textured Soils for Focused Management

Silt makes up nearly 60% of the soil, paired with 22.3% sand and 17.9% clay. This high silt concentration creates a fine-textured soil that holds water tightly but can be prone to erosion if not managed.

Managing Lower Organic Reserves

Organic matter sits at 1.96%, which is just below the national average and significantly lower than Indiana's 4.90% average. The water capacity of 0.198 in/in requires careful irrigation management to ensure consistent yields.

Slow Permeability and Fine Particles

While specific drainage class data is limited, the high silt concentration often indicates slower permeability. Landowners should consider these traits when planning construction projects or intensive farming operations.

Extended Seasons in Zone 6b

Hardiness Zone 6b allows for a longer growing season, making Jackson County a great spot for melons and berries. Adding compost helps boost organic matter and improves the overall productivity of your home garden.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 22.3%
Silt: 59.8%
Clay: 17.9%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.0pH
5.96014371254691
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 Jackson County have?

Jackson County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 60% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Jackson County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Jackson 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 Jackson County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Jackson County.

What crops or plants grow well in Jackson County's soil?

Based on Jackson 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 Jackson County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Jackson 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.