Ohio County Soil Data
Ohio County, Indiana
Avg 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
Frequently 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.
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.