LaPorte County Soil Data
LaPorte County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
17.1%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in LaPorte County, Indiana
The Intense Acidity of LaPorte Mollisols
LaPorte County features Mollisols with an exceptionally low average pH of 4.85. This makes it one of the most acidic counties in the state, falling far below the national median of 6.5.
A Gritty Loam with High Porosity
The soil composition is 40.4% sand and 27.2% silt, resulting in a loam that is easy to till. With only 9.9% clay, the soil lacks the heavy stickiness found in central Indiana, allowing for excellent root penetration.
Indiana's Leader in Organic Matter
Organic matter reaches a massive 17.14%, the highest in this group and nearly four times the state average. This richness combined with an above-average water capacity of 0.208 in/in makes for incredibly productive land.
Navigating Very Poorly Drained Terrain
The county is classified as very poorly drained and sits in the B/D hydrologic group. These soils are often saturated, meaning that any construction or farming requires serious attention to water management and drainage systems.
The Berry Capital of the Region
The 6a zone and high acidity are perfect for blueberries, which require a low pH to thrive. If you are starting a garden, leverage the high organic matter to grow lush, vibrant crops that love moist environments.
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
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does LaPorte County have?
LaPorte County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 27% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is LaPorte County's soil acidic or alkaline?
LaPorte County's soil has a low pH of 4.8, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for LaPorte County?
LaPorte 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 LaPorte County's soil?
Based on LaPorte County's Loam texture, pH of 4.8, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in LaPorte County?
LaPorte 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: LaPorte County
Soil Verdict
LaPorte 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
LaPorte County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for LaPorte 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.