Rush County Soil Data
Rush County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
Soil pH
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
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Rush County
Soil Verdict
Rush 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
Rush County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Rush 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.