Warrick County Soil Data
Warrick County, Indiana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.1
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
2.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Warrick County, Indiana
Warrick County’s Silt-Dense Soils
Warrick County is characterized by Alfisols with a silt loam texture and an average pH of 6.07. This pH is essentially identical to the Indiana state average of 6.08, though lower than the national median of 6.5.
A Profile Dominated by Silt
The soil is remarkably low in sand at just 9.3%, while silt makes up a massive 71.2%. This creates a smooth, flour-like texture that holds onto nutrients well but is highly susceptible to erosion and compaction.
Efficient Water Storage in Low-Sand Soil
Organic matter is 2.16%, which is slightly above the national average. Because of the high silt content, the available water capacity is a robust 0.209 in/in, which is better than the state average of 0.202.
Slow Infiltration Requires Heavy Management
Classified as moderately well drained, these soils belong to hydrologic group D. This group has very low infiltration rates when wet, making the land prone to surface runoff and standing water.
Long Seasons in Southern Zone 7a
In the warmer 7a zone, Warrick County gardeners can enjoy an extended growing window for peppers and melons. Using cover crops is essential here to protect the silt-heavy soil from winter erosion and maintain its structure.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Warrick County have?
Warrick County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 9% sand, 71% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Warrick County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Warrick 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 Warrick County?
Warrick County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Warrick County's soil?
Based on Warrick County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.1, and Moderately 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 Warrick County?
Warrick 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: Warrick County
Soil Verdict
Warrick 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
Warrick County is somewhat warmer than the Indiana statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Warrick 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.