Kosciusko County Soil Data
Kosciusko County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.9
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
8.0%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Kosciusko County, Indiana
Acidic Alfisols Form the Northern Foundation
Kosciusko County features Alfisols with a notable average pH of 5.90. This is more acidic than both the national median of 6.5 and the Indiana state average of 6.08, which affects which nutrients are most available to plants.
Fine Sandy Loam Provides Quick Drainage
The soil profile is 51.8% sand, leading to a fine sandy loam texture that warms up quickly in the spring. While easy to dig, the low 11.3% clay content means the soil does not hold onto nutrients as tightly as heavier soils.
Explosive Organic Matter Levels
The county boasts an impressive 8.03% organic matter, nearly double the state average of 4.90%. This richness helps compensate for a lower available water capacity of 0.179 in/in, providing a fertile base for agriculture.
Well Drained and Ready for Rain
Classified as well-drained and part of Hydrologic Group B, these soils absorb rainfall efficiently. This minimizes runoff and makes the land ideal for building foundations that stay dry throughout the year.
Thriving in Zone 6a Sandy Soils
Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes absolutely love the loose, sandy texture of Kosciusko County soil. Despite a soil score of 66.7, the high organic matter provides a fantastic jumpstart for any home gardener.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Kosciusko County have?
Kosciusko County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 27% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Kosciusko County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Kosciusko County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Kosciusko County?
Kosciusko County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Kosciusko County's soil?
Based on Kosciusko County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 5.9, and 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 Kosciusko County?
Kosciusko 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: Kosciusko County
Soil Verdict
Kosciusko County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Kosciusko County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Kosciusko 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.