Orange County Soil Data
Orange County, Indiana
Avg pH
5.7
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Orange County, Indiana
Acidic Ultisols of the Uplands
Orange County features highly weathered Ultisols with an acidic pH of 5.73. This is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5, often requiring lime applications to balance the soil for most garden vegetables.
Fine Silt and Low Sand
The composition is heavily weighted toward silt at 70.6%, with a low sand content of only 12.6%. This fine-textured silt loam holds nutrients well but is highly susceptible to surface crusting and erosion if left bare.
Superior Water Retention Potential
While organic matter is modest at 2.48%, the available water capacity is high at 0.209 in/in. This exceeds the state average of 0.202, helping plants survive short dry spells more effectively than in neighboring counties.
Naturally Well-Drained Terrain
The soil is classified as well drained and belongs to hydrologic group C. This allows for more flexible planting schedules as the ground dries out faster than the poorly drained soils found in Northern Indiana.
Orchards and Zone 6b Gems
Orange County is famous for its orchards, as the well-drained silt loams in zone 6b are ideal for peaches and apples. With a soil score of 63.0, focusing on acid-loving plants like blueberries can also be very successful.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Orange County have?
Orange County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 13% sand, 71% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Orange County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Orange County's soil has a pH of 5.7, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Orange County?
Orange 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 Orange County's soil?
Based on Orange County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.7, 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 Orange County?
Orange County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Orange 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.