Tippecanoe County Soil Data
Tippecanoe County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Somewhat excessively drained
Organic Matter
5.7%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Tippecanoe County, Indiana
Elite Mollisols of Tippecanoe County
Tippecanoe County is home to Mollisols, which are among the most fertile soils in the world. With an average pH of 6.35, it is one of the closest counties to the ideal national median of 6.5. This provides an nearly perfect chemical balance for maximum crop yields.
A Classic Fine Sandy Loam Blend
The texture is a fine sandy loam made of 48.2% silt, 31.2% sand, and 17% clay. This blend is highly prized because it offers the perfect balance of aeration from sand and nutrient storage from clay. It remains easy to manage even during large-scale agricultural operations.
Superior Organic Wealth and Moisture
The county boasts a strong 5.72% organic matter content, surpassing the state average of 4.90%. Its available water capacity of 0.201 in/in aligns with the state benchmark, ensuring that the soil's high nutrient levels are always accessible to plants. This is prime land for any agricultural endeavor.
Rapid Water Infiltration and Movement
Classified as somewhat excessively drained and part of hydrologic group A, this soil moves water quickly through the profile. This trait prevents soggy fields but requires careful nutrient management to avoid leaching. It is ideal for plants that need well-aerated roots and stable moisture.
Garden Gold in Hardiness Zone 6a
Tippecanoe's zone 6a climate and rich Mollisols are perfect for high-value vegetables and prize-winning flowers. The soil's natural fertility means your garden will thrive with minimal extra fertilizer. It is a great year to start a backyard farm in some of Indiana's best 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
Somewhat excessively drained
Water is removed rapidly. Soils may be droughty and have limited water-holding capacity.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Sandy Soil Detected
Sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out. These products boost water retention and organic matter.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Tippecanoe County have?
Tippecanoe County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 48% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Tippecanoe County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Tippecanoe County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Tippecanoe County?
Tippecanoe County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Tippecanoe County's soil?
Based on Tippecanoe County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 6.3, and Somewhat excessively drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Tippecanoe County?
Tippecanoe 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: Tippecanoe County
Soil Verdict
Tippecanoe 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
Tippecanoe County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Tippecanoe 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.