Jasper County Soil Data
Jasper County, Indiana
Avg pH
5.6
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
11.5%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Jasper County, Indiana
Jasper County's Unique Mollisol Chemistry
Jasper County’s Mollisols are notably acidic, showing a pH of 5.60 compared to the national median of 6.5. This unique chemical profile requires specific management but supports specialty acid-loving species.
Sandy Loam with High Workability
The soil is 53.6% sand and only 11.3% clay, qualifying as a fine sandy loam. This texture ensures high workability but means nutrients can leach away faster than in the heavier clay soils found elsewhere.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
The county features an extraordinary 11.52% organic matter, more than double the Indiana average. However, the sandy nature keeps water capacity at 0.185 in/in, which is lower than the state average.
Very Poorly Drained Sandy Grounds
These soils are classified as very poorly drained and belong to hydrologic group C/D. This combination of sandy texture and high water tables creates unique challenges for drainage and building foundations.
Specialty Success in Zone 5b
In Zone 5b, these dark, organic-rich sands are famous for specialty crops like mint and potatoes. Gardeners should embrace the acidity by planting blueberries or other crops that thrive in peaty conditions.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Jasper County have?
Jasper County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 54% sand, 22% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jasper County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jasper County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Jasper County?
Jasper County has a dominant drainage class of "Very 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 Jasper County's soil?
Based on Jasper County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 5.6, and Very 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 Jasper County?
Jasper 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jasper 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.