Ohio County Soil Data
Ohio County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.2
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
2.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Ohio County, Indiana
Silky Alfisols of Ohio County
Ohio County’s soil is characterized by a silt loam texture and a pH of 6.20, sitting just above the state average of 6.08. These Alfisols represent mature, productive soils that are typical of Indiana’s forested history.
A Silt-Dominant Mineral Mix
This soil is 64.7% silt and only 14.6% sand, creating a smooth, floury texture that is highly fertile. However, the 20.7% clay content means the soil can become heavy and sticky when wet, requiring careful timing for spring tilling.
Steady Water Holding Capacity
The organic matter levels reach 2.18%, which beats the national average but trails the Indiana average of 4.90%. Its available water capacity of 0.203 in/in is nearly identical to the state benchmark, ensuring reliable moisture for crops.
Infiltration Limits for Builders
The county is moderately well drained but falls into hydrologic group D, indicating very slow infiltration rates when the soil is saturated. This can lead to high runoff during heavy storms, making erosion control essential on sloped land.
Thriving in Zone 6b
Positioned in hardiness zone 6b, this soil is perfect for deciduous fruit trees and late-summer vegetables. The 66.7 soil score suggests that with a little organic amendment, your home garden will thrive.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ohio County have?
Ohio County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 15% sand, 65% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ohio County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ohio 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 Ohio County?
Ohio County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Ohio County's soil?
Based on Ohio County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.2, and Moderately 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 Ohio County?
Ohio 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: Ohio County
Soil Verdict
Ohio County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Ohio County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ohio 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.