Jennings County Soil Data
Jennings County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Jennings County, Indiana
Jennings County's Young Entisol Profile
Jennings County features Entisols with a pH of 6.01, which is almost identical to the Indiana state average. This slightly acidic foundation is common for these younger soils that have not yet developed distinct layers.
High Silt Content for Smooth Fields
The soil is predominantly silt (64.6%) with 17.8% clay and 17.6% sand. This high silt ratio provides a smooth feel and high water retention, though it lacks the structural stability of sandier soil mixes.
Building Organic Matter for Better Yields
At 1.89%, the organic matter is lower than the national average and well below the state's 4.90% mark. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.207 in/in is higher than the state average, offering a good moisture reservoir.
Navigating Hydrologic Runoff Risks
While specific drainage classes are unavailable, the Entisol order and C/D hydrologic group suggest moderate runoff risks. These soils require careful management to prevent erosion on sloped terrain during heavy rains.
Long Growing Seasons in Zone 6b
The 6b hardiness zone allows for a long season of warm-weather crops like sweet potatoes and okra. Focus on building soil health with cover crops to overcome the lower organic matter levels in your backyard.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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
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 Jennings County have?
Jennings County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 65% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jennings County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jennings 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 Jennings County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Jennings County.
What crops or plants grow well in Jennings County's soil?
Based on Jennings 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 Jennings County?
Jennings County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Jennings County
Soil Verdict
Jennings 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
Jennings County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jennings 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.