Newton County Soil Data
Newton County, Indiana
Avg pH
6.2
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
7.6%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Newton County, Indiana
The dark, rich Mollisols of the west
Newton County is defined by Mollisols, the same deep, dark soils that power the Great Plains. With an average pH of 6.23, it sits slightly above the state average of 6.08 and near the national median of 6.5. This taxonomic order is famous for its natural fertility and high agricultural value.
Sandy loam with high permeability
The soil is remarkably sandy for Indiana, consisting of 53.0% sand and only 12.9% clay. This fine sandy loam texture allows for rapid water movement through the top layers but can be prone to drying out. However, the 27.6% silt content helps provide enough structure to keep the soil from becoming pure sand.
Extraordinary organic matter levels
Newton County features a massive 7.57% organic matter content, significantly higher than the state average of 4.90%. While its available water capacity of 0.180 in/in is below the state average, the high organic matter provides a critical nutrient reservoir. This soil is naturally 'recharged' with the decayed remains of ancient prairie grasses.
Challenges with very poor drainage
Despite the high sand content, the county is classified as very poorly drained with a hydrologic group of C/D. This is often due to a high water table or flat topography that prevents water from leaving the area. Many fields require specialized management to prevent saturation during the wet spring months.
Prairie potential in Zone 5b
As one of Indiana's colder regions in Zone 5b, Newton County is ideal for cool-season crops and native prairie restorations. The high organic matter means your plants will have plenty of fuel to grow once the drainage is managed. It is an excellent place to start a garden if you enjoy working with rich, dark earth.
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: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Newton County have?
Newton County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 53% sand, 28% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Newton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Newton 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 Newton County?
Newton 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 Newton County's soil?
Based on Newton County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 6.2, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Newton County?
Newton County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Newton 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.