Randolph County Soil Data
Randolph County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.5
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
5.8%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Randolph County, Indiana
Rich Mollisols of the Eastern Border
Randolph County's soil is nearly neutral with an average pH of 6.45, almost matching the national median of 6.5. This land consists of Mollisols, which are among the most fertile agricultural soils in the world. Its clay loam texture provides a sturdy and nutrient-dense environment for crops.
Heavy Clay Loams for Nutrient Retention
The soil contains 23.5% sand, 50.3% silt, and 24.0% clay. This relatively high clay content allows the soil to hold onto essential nutrients like potassium and calcium very effectively. While it can be heavy to till, it provides a very stable medium for large-scale grain production.
High Organic Matter and Productivity
Randolph boasts an organic matter level of 5.82%, significantly higher than both the national 2.0% and state 4.90% averages. The available water capacity is 0.205 inches per inch, providing plenty of hydration for growing plants. This combination earns the county a high soil score of 86.0 out of 100.
Managing Water in Heavy Soils
Classified as poorly drained and belonging to hydrologic group B/D, these soils require active management to prevent waterlogging. Without tile drainage, the high clay content and low position on the landscape can keep fields soggy. Once drained, however, these are some of the most productive lands in the state.
Abundant Harvests in Zone 6a
Randolph's Zone 6a climate and rich Mollisol soils are perfect for high-yielding corn, beans, and home vegetable gardens. The nearly neutral pH means you can grow most vegetables without heavy liming. It is the perfect time to plant heavy feeders like broccoli or heirloom tomatoes.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Randolph County have?
Randolph County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 50% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Randolph County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Randolph County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Randolph County?
Randolph County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Randolph County's soil?
Based on Randolph County's Clay loam texture, pH of 6.5, and 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 Randolph County?
Randolph 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Randolph County
Soil Verdict
Randolph County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Randolph County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Randolph 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.