Marshall County Soil Data
Marshall County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
17.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Marshall County, Indiana
Acidic Entisols define the landscape
Marshall County features Entisols with a notably acidic average pH of 5.00, significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. This low pH profile suggests that many local soils require lime treatment to support traditional crops or gardens. These young soils provide a unique chemical environment compared to the state's typically less acidic regions.
High sand content ensures fast drainage
The soil composition is nearly half sand at 49.8%, mixed with 21.7% silt and just 8.2% clay. This high sand percentage creates a coarse texture that is easy to till but may require frequent watering. While it drains rapidly, the low clay content means it lacks the natural nutrient-holding capacity of heavier soils.
Exceptional organic matter levels
Marshall County stands out with a massive 17.38% organic matter content, dwarfing the state average of 4.90%. This rich organic component helps compensate for the sandy texture by improving soil health and microbial activity. The available water capacity is 0.199 in/in, which is very close to the state average of 0.202.
Reliable well-drained conditions
The soil is classified as well-drained, which is ideal for preventing root rot in sensitive plants. This classification makes it excellent for most agricultural uses and building foundations, as water moves through the profile efficiently. You can expect few issues with standing water, even after typical Indiana rainstorms.
Acid-loving plants thrive in Zone 6a
In hardiness zone 6a, blueberries and azaleas are excellent choices that love this county's naturally acidic soil. With a soil score of 61.4, there is room for improvement through pH management, but the organic richness provides a great head start. Your garden can thrive if you select plants adapted to these specific sandy and acidic conditions.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Marshall County have?
Marshall County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 50% sand, 22% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Marshall County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Marshall County's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Marshall County?
Marshall 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 Marshall County's soil?
Based on Marshall County's Loam texture, pH of 5.0, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Marshall County?
Marshall 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Marshall County
Soil Verdict
Marshall 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
Marshall County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Marshall 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.