Spencer County Soil Data
Spencer County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.1
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Spencer County, Indiana
Spencer's Slightly Acidic Soil Foundation
Spencer County features an average pH of 6.07, which almost perfectly mirrors the Indiana state average of 6.08. While specific taxonomic data for this region is limited, the acidity remains just below the national median of 6.5. This creates a versatile base that is common across the Ohio River valley.
A Silty Mix with High Retention
The soil composition is dominated by 68.2% silt and 18.7% clay, with a small 13.1% sand fraction. This high silt content makes the soil feel smooth and helps it hold onto moisture and nutrients effectively. However, gardeners should be careful to avoid working the ground when wet to prevent heavy compaction.
Lower Organic Matter, High Water Storage
Organic matter sits at 1.94%, which is lower than the state average of 4.90% and the national average of 2.0%. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.208 in/in exceeds the state benchmark of 0.202 in/in. This means the soil is excellent at storing water for plants during the hot summer months.
Natural Moisture Management and Drainage
While specific drainage and hydrologic group data are not available for this county, the high silt and clay percentages suggest moderate water movement. These soils generally require thoughtful management to ensure proper aeration for root systems. Local site assessments are recommended before starting major building or drainage projects.
Long Growing Seasons in Zone 7a
Located in hardiness zone 7a, Spencer County offers one of the longest growing seasons in Indiana. Heat-loving crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes thrive in this climate and silty soil. Grab a shovel and start a garden to take advantage of the county's superior water-holding capacity.
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
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Spencer County have?
Spencer County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 13% sand, 68% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Spencer County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Spencer 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 Spencer County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Spencer County.
What crops or plants grow well in Spencer County's soil?
Based on Spencer County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.1, 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 Spencer County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Spencer County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Spencer County
Soil Verdict
Spencer County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Spencer County is somewhat warmer than the Indiana statewide average. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Spencer 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.