Jennings County Soil Data

Jennings County, Indiana

Avg 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

Silt Loam
Sand: 17.6%
Silt: 64.6%
Clay: 17.8%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.0pH
6.00817299400265
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 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.

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.