Warren County Soil Data
Warren County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
4.0%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Warren County, Indiana
Warren County: Indiana’s Soil Gold Standard
With a soil score of 80.3, Warren County boasts some of the highest-rated land in the state. The dominant loam texture and Alfisol order are paired with a healthy 6.35 pH.
The Ideal Loam for Diverse Crops
The soil contains a balanced 23.3% sand, 54.7% silt, and 19.8% clay. This specific mix, known as loam, is widely considered the best for gardening and farming due to its optimal drainage and nutrient storage.
High Fertility and Superior Water Storage
Organic matter is strong at 4.04%, more than doubling the national average. Its available water capacity of 0.205 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.202, creating a resilient environment for thirsty crops.
Reliable Drainage Supports High Yields
The land is classified as well drained and belongs to hydrologic group C. This combination ensures that surplus water exits the root zone quickly, preventing anaerobic conditions that can stunt plant growth.
Gardeners’ Paradise in Zone 6a
The combination of loam texture and high organic matter makes Warren County an ideal place to grow almost anything. From heritage tomatoes to sprawling vineyards, the soil provides a perfect foundation for a productive garden.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: 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 Warren County have?
Warren County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 55% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Warren County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Warren County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Warren County?
Warren 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 Warren County's soil?
Based on Warren County's Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Warren County?
Warren 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Warren County
Soil Verdict
Warren 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
Warren County closely matches the Indiana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Warren 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.