Lawrence County Soil Data
Lawrence County, Indiana
Avg pH
5.8
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Lawrence County, Indiana
Southern Alfisols Define Lawrence County
Lawrence County soils are classified as Alfisols, which are typically found under forest cover. The average pH of 5.84 is slightly lower than the state average of 6.08 and significantly lower than the national median of 6.5.
Silt Loam with Low Sand Content
The soil is dominated by 65.9% silt and contains only 18.0% sand. This high silt concentration creates a smooth, flour-like texture that can become very compacted if driven over with heavy machinery when wet.
Moderate Fertility and Water Retention
Organic matter sits at 2.26%, which is slightly above the national average of 2.0% but well below the state average. The available water capacity of 0.199 in/in is just under the state benchmark of 0.202.
Poor Drainage Requires Careful Planning
Lawrence County is categorized as poorly drained and belongs to the B/D hydrologic group. High silt and low sand mean water moves slowly through the profile, requiring careful management for home gardens and farm fields.
Growing Strong in Hardiness Zone 6b
The warmer 6b climate allows for a variety of perennial flowers and hardy vegetables. Despite a lower soil score of 59.8, adding compost can easily boost the organic matter and help you grow a successful garden.
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
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lawrence County have?
Lawrence County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 66% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lawrence County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lawrence County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Lawrence County?
Lawrence County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Lawrence County's soil?
Based on Lawrence County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.8, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Lawrence County?
Lawrence 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lawrence 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.