Starke County Soil Data
Starke County, Indiana
Avg pH
4.9
Texture
Muck
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
13.3%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Starke County, Indiana
The Organic Histosols of Starke County
Starke County is defined by Histosols, a taxonomic order characterized by thick layers of organic material. With an average pH of 4.86, these soils are highly acidic compared to the national median of 6.5. This distinctive profile is the result of ancient wetlands and decomposed vegetation.
Muck Texture with High Sand Content
The dominant texture is muck, consisting of 64.8% sand and only 5% clay. This combination creates a light, dark soil that is extremely easy to dig but lacks a heavy mineral structure. The high sand percentage allows for quick drainage within the organic matrix.
Massive Organic Matter Boosts Growth
At 13.31%, the organic matter here is nearly three times the state average of 4.90%. However, the available water capacity is lower at 0.165 in/in compared to the state's 0.202 benchmark. While the soil is nutrient-rich, it may dry out faster than typical Indiana loams.
Poor Drainage and High Water Tables
Classified as very poorly drained and part of hydrologic group A/D, these soils naturally stay wet without intervention. This is common for Histosols, which often require drainage tiles for commercial farming. Builders should be cautious, as the muck texture and high water table can impact foundation stability.
Thriving in the Muck of Zone 5b
Hardiness zone 5b is perfect for root crops like carrots, onions, and radishes that love loose, organic-rich muck. The soil is incredibly fertile if you manage the high acidity with lime. Start your cool-weather garden today to take advantage of this unique northern Indiana soil.
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 Starke County have?
Starke County's soil is classified as Muck. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 65% sand, 13% silt, and 5% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Starke County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Starke County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Starke County?
Starke 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 Starke County's soil?
Based on Starke County's Muck texture, pH of 4.9, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Starke County?
Starke 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Starke 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.