Morgan County Soil Data

Morgan County, Indiana

Avg pH

6.2

Texture

Fine sandy loam

Drainage

Well drained

Organic Matter

2.4%

Hydrologic Group

B

Data Story

About Soil in Morgan County, Indiana

Alfisols with a balanced profile

Morgan County features Alfisols with an average pH of 6.23, which is slightly higher than the state average of 6.08. This brings the soil chemistry closer to the national median of 6.5, making it a friendly environment for most plants. The county earns a soil score of 69.6, indicating solid productivity across its varied landscape.

Fine sandy loam for easy tillage

The dominant texture is fine sandy loam, composed of 58.0% silt and 23.8% sand. With 18.2% clay, the soil has enough structure to hold nutrients without becoming difficult to dig or plow. This balanced texture is highly valued by gardeners for its ability to crumble easily when worked.

Steady water capacity and healthy minerals

Organic matter in Morgan County averages 2.41%, which is lower than the state average but still above the 2.0% national benchmark. The available water capacity is 0.204 in/in, outperforming the state average of 0.202. These stats suggest the soil is reliable and capable of sustaining growth through typical Indiana summers.

Excellent drainage for versatile use

Classified as well-drained and belonging to hydrologic group B, this soil handles rainfall with ease. You won't often find water pooling in these fields, which makes the land suitable for both farming and stable construction. This drainage efficiency helps oxygen reach plant roots, promoting faster and healthier growth.

Thriving in hardiness zone 6a

Zone 6a allows for a wide range of gardening successes, from hardy greens to vibrant summer perennials. The fine sandy loam texture is particularly forgiving for new gardeners who want an easy start. Grab a shovel and start planting, as Morgan County's soil is ready to support your green thumb.

Soil Composition

Fine sandy loam
Sand: 23.8%
Silt: 58.0%
Clay: 18.2%
Fine sandy loam

Soil pH

6.2pH
6.22999123808799
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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.

Runoff potential:Moderate

Drainage Class

Well drained

Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Morgan County have?

Morgan County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 58% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Morgan County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Morgan 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 Morgan County?

Morgan 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 Morgan County's soil?

Based on Morgan County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 6.2, 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 Morgan County?

Morgan 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.

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.