Montgomery County Soil Data
Montgomery County, Indiana
Avg pH
6.2
Texture
Muck
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
5.2%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Montgomery County, Indiana
Elite soil quality and Histosols
Montgomery County boasts an impressive soil score of 82.1, far exceeding the state average of 71.4. The dominant taxonomic order is Histosols, featuring an average pH of 6.24 which is very close to the state average. This indicates some of the most productive and valuable land in the entire state of Indiana.
Muck soils rich in organic matter
The dominant texture here is muck, a unique composition that handles very differently than standard mineral soils. It consists of 56.0% silt, 23.0% sand, and 17.3% clay, creating a dark and spongy environment. This mix is highly prized for certain types of high-value agriculture due to its unique physical properties.
Top-tier organic richness and water storage
The county's organic matter content is 5.18%, beating the state average of 4.90% and the national average of 2.0%. It also features a superior available water capacity of 0.215 in/in, one of the highest in the region. These factors combine to create a powerhouse of fertility that can support intensive growing.
Managing very poorly drained land
Because these soils are classified as very poorly drained and fall into hydrologic group C/D, water management is the primary challenge. Historically, many of these areas required drainage tiles to become the productive agricultural lands they are today. Gardeners may need raised beds to prevent plant roots from becoming waterlogged.
A Zone 6a agricultural powerhouse
This county is world-class for growing corn, soybeans, and heavy-feeding garden vegetables. The 82.1 soil score means you are working with some of the best earth in the Midwest. With a little attention to drainage, your Montgomery County garden will be the envy of the neighborhood.
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
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: Muck
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Montgomery County have?
Montgomery County's soil is classified as Muck. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 56% silt, and 17% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Montgomery County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Montgomery County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Montgomery County?
Montgomery 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 Montgomery County's soil?
Based on Montgomery County's Muck texture, pH of 6.2, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Montgomery County?
Montgomery County's dominant soil order is Histosols. Histosols are organic soils (peatlands and bogs) with very high organic matter content. They form in wet, poorly drained environments.
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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.