Rush County Soil Data

Rush County, Indiana

Avg pH

6.5

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

2.3%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Rush County, Indiana

The Ideal pH of Rush County

Rush County boasts an average pH of 6.53, which perfectly aligns with the national median of 6.5. This neutral soil is primarily composed of Entisols, which are relatively undeveloped but highly versatile. This chemistry is much closer to ideal than the state average of 6.08, requiring less adjustment for most crops.

A Balanced Blend for General Use

With 23.8% sand, 54.9% silt, and 21.3% clay, the soil offers a very balanced physical profile. While a dominant texture class is not specified, this mix provides enough clay for nutrients and enough sand for aeration. It represents a stable, productive base for the county's famous farmland.

Productive Soils with Solid Storage

The soil contains 2.31% organic matter, which beats the national average of 2.0% but stays below the Indiana state average of 4.90%. Its available water capacity of 0.205 inches per inch is right in line with the state norm. These factors contribute to a strong soil score of 75.1, indicating high natural potential.

Steady Water Movement Across Fields

Specific drainage classes are not provided in the current dataset for Rush County. However, the balanced texture and neutral pH suggest a soil that responds well to standard management practices. Its Entisol classification often means it is located in areas where new sediment provides fresh mineral nutrients.

Neutral Soils for a Healthy Garden

Being in Zone 6a, Rush County is a prime spot for classic Midwestern gardening. Because the pH is near neutral at 6.53, you can grow everything from asparagus to zucchini with minimal soil correction. Your backyard garden has a head start thanks to this naturally balanced chemistry.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 23.8%
Silt: 54.9%
Clay: 21.3%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.5pH
6.53086173160122
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Series

Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.

Hydrologic Group

Hydrologic group data not available.

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Silt Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Rush County have?

Rush County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 55% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Rush County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Rush County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.

What is the drainage class for Rush County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Rush County.

What crops or plants grow well in Rush County's soil?

Based on Rush County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.5, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.

What USDA soil order is found in Rush County?

Rush County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.

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.