Tipton County Soil Data
Tipton County, Indiana
Avg pH
5.9
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
7.7%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Tipton County, Indiana
Rich Silt Loams of Tipton County
Tipton County is dominated by Alfisols with an average pH of 5.93, making it slightly more acidic than the state average. This acidity level is below the national median of 6.5, but remains within a productive range for most crops. These soils are part of the deep, fertile till plains of central Indiana.
Ideal Balance in Silt Loam Texture
The soil texture is a classic silt loam, consisting of 52.8% silt and 19.7% clay. This composition is favored by farmers because it holds onto nutrients tightly while the 19.3% sand keeps it from becoming too heavy. It is a highly reliable soil for consistent, year-over-year production.
Leading the State in Water Storage
Tipton's organic matter is 7.67%, significantly higher than the Indiana state average of 4.90%. More impressively, its available water capacity of 0.223 in/in is among the highest in the region. This gives local plants a massive reservoir of moisture to draw from during dry spells.
Well Drained and Stable Hydrology
These soils are well drained and belong to hydrologic group B, providing a stable and predictable environment for roots. Water moves through the profile at a moderate rate, which is perfect for preventing both drought stress and flooding. This makes Tipton County excellent for both high-yield farming and construction.
Max Productivity in Zone 6a
In hardiness zone 6a, Tipton County is a top-tier location for growing corn, soybeans, and large-scale vegetable gardens. The high water capacity and organic matter offer a safety net for any gardener. Your plants will find a rich, supportive home in this high-performing soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Tipton County have?
Tipton County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 53% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Tipton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Tipton County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Tipton County?
Tipton County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Tipton County's soil?
Based on Tipton County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.9, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Tipton County?
Tipton County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
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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.