Miami County Soil Data
Miami County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
4.8%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Miami County, Indiana
Prime Alfisols with balanced pH
Miami County is characterized by Alfisols with an average pH of 6.39, coming very close to the national median of 6.5. These soils are naturally fertile and less acidic than the state average of 6.08, making them highly productive for agriculture. The overall soil score of 78.8 is significantly higher than the Indiana average of 71.4.
Versatile sandy loam textures
The dominant texture is sandy loam, consisting of 34.6% sand, 43.7% silt, and 18.5% clay. This mix provides excellent workability and enough clay to hold onto essential nutrients. It is a 'best-of-both-worlds' composition that balances drainage with structural stability.
Rich organic matter near state averages
The soil contains 4.79% organic matter, nearly matching the Indiana state average of 4.90% and doubling the national benchmark. While the available water capacity of 0.195 in/in is slightly below the state average of 0.202, the high organic content helps maintain soil health. This profile supports vigorous growth for a wide variety of native and cultivated plants.
Well-drained and predictable hydrology
Classified as well-drained, these soils belong to hydrologic group B, indicating a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. This makes the land excellent for farming and building, as it resists ponding and manages rainfall effectively. Gardeners will find that their soil dries out quickly enough after rain to allow for timely planting.
A gardener's dream in Zone 6a
Zone 6a gardeners can take advantage of some of the best soil in the state to grow everything from pumpkins to perennials. The high soil score of 78.8 confirms that Miami County is a premier location for establishing a productive home garden. With such balanced pH and texture, your plants have every advantage from the start.
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: Sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Sandy Soil Detected
Sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out. These products boost water retention and organic matter.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Miami County have?
Miami County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 44% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Miami County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Miami 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 Miami County?
Miami 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 Miami County's soil?
Based on Miami County's Sandy 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 Miami County?
Miami 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: Miami County
Soil Verdict
Miami 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
Miami County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Miami 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.