Owen County Soil Data
Owen County, Indiana
Avg pH
6.1
Texture
Muck
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.8%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Owen County, Indiana
The Unique Muck of Owen County
Owen County stands out with dominant Muck textures and Histosols, a taxonomic order defined by organic-rich materials. The average pH of 6.08 perfectly matches the Indiana state average but remains slightly acidic compared to the national median.
Low Sand, High Silt Content
The mineral component consists of 63.2% silt and 20.0% sand. This mix creates a soil that is exceptionally soft and easy to work, though it can become quite dusty when dry or muddy when wet.
High Capacity for Water Storage
The organic matter level is 2.82%, which is higher than the national average of 2.0%. An available water capacity of 0.205 in/in suggests these soils are excellent at reservoir-like water storage for thirsty summer crops.
Very Poor Drainage Profiles
Classified as very poorly drained with a hydrologic group of A/D, these soils have a naturally high water table. While group A indicates high infiltration, the 'D' designation reflects the reality of local drainage restrictions.
Mastering the Zone 6a Garden
In USDA zone 6a, these moisture-retentive soils are perfect for leafy greens and moisture-loving herbs like mint. The county's soil score of 70.0 indicates a high-quality foundation for any agricultural project.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
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: Muck
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Owen County have?
Owen County's soil is classified as Muck. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 63% silt, and 17% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Owen County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Owen County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Owen County?
Owen 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 Owen County's soil?
Based on Owen County's Muck texture, pH of 6.1, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Owen County?
Owen County's dominant soil order is Histosols. Histosols are organic soils (peatlands and bogs) with very high organic matter content. They form in wet, poorly drained environments.
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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.