Madison County Soil Data
Madison County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
5.6%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Madison County, Indiana
Madison County's Top-Tier Inceptisols
Madison County features Inceptisols with a healthy average pH of 6.40. This is very close to the national median of 6.5 and much higher than the Indiana state average of 6.08, making it naturally balanced for many plants.
A Rich Loam with Substantial Clay
The soil is 53.5% silt and 20.9% clay, creating a sturdy loam texture. This composition provides excellent structural support for tall crops and high nutrient-holding capacity thanks to the significant clay content.
Superior Water Capacity and Organic Richness
With 5.60% organic matter, these soils beat the state average of 4.90%. The available water capacity of 0.210 in/in is the highest in the group, ensuring that plants have access to moisture even during dry weeks.
Well-Drained Ground with Group C Hydrology
Madison County land is classified as well-drained, though it falls into Hydrologic Group C. This means while the surface drains well, there is a somewhat slow rate of water transmission through the deeper soil layers.
Exceptional Potential in Zone 6a
With a high soil score of 86.2, Madison County is an agricultural powerhouse. You can grow almost anything here, from prize-winning pumpkins to high-yield vegetable patches, with very little soil amendment needed.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Madison County have?
Madison County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 54% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Madison County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Madison County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Madison County?
Madison 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 Madison County's soil?
Based on Madison County's Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Madison County?
Madison County's dominant soil order is Inceptisols. Inceptisols are young soils with weak horizon development. They occur in a wide range of climates and parent materials.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Madison County
Soil Verdict
Madison 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
Madison County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Madison 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.