Jefferson County Soil Data
Jefferson County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Jefferson County, Indiana
The Rolling Alfisols of Jefferson County
Jefferson County's Alfisols show a pH of 5.98, which is more acidic than the state's 6.08 average. These forest-derived soils are typical of the rolling hills found in southern Indiana and the Ohio River Valley.
Silt-Dominant Loam Texture
Silt dominates at 65.9%, with very little sand at 14.4% and clay at 19.6%. This silt loam texture creates a smooth, floury soil that is fertile but can be prone to compaction if handled roughly.
Moderate Fertility and Solid Water Storage
Organic matter is relatively low at 2.07%, trailing the 4.90% state average. However, the water capacity is slightly above the state norm at 0.207 in/in, helping plants survive the hotter summers of southern Indiana.
Moderately Well Drained Upland Soils
These soils are moderately well drained and fall into hydrologic group C/D. This provides a better balance for building and farming compared to the more saturated soils found in the northern part of the state.
Mild Climates and Orchard Potential
Zone 6b offers a mild climate that pairs well with moisture-retaining silt for growing orchards and vineyards. Gardeners should focus on adding organic mulches to improve soil structure and boost nutrient levels.
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 6.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Jefferson County have?
Jefferson County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 14% sand, 66% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jefferson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jefferson 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 Jefferson County?
Jefferson County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Jefferson County's soil?
Based on Jefferson County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.0, and Moderately 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 Jefferson County?
Jefferson County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Jefferson County
Soil Verdict
Jefferson 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
Jefferson County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jefferson 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.