Allen County Soil Data

Allen County, Kentucky

Avg pH

5.5

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

2.0%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Allen County, Kentucky

Low pH in Allen County

The soil pH in Allen County averages 5.55, making it more acidic than both the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 5.80. This acidity influences nutrient availability and requires careful management for sensitive plants.

High Silt, Low Sand

The mix consists of 62.8% silt, 19.4% clay, and 17.7% sand. This high concentration of silt suggests excellent water storage but can lead to poor aeration if the soil is not properly aerated.

Building Organic Matter

The organic matter content is 1.99%, nearly identical to the national average of 2.0% but well below the Kentucky state average of 3.55%. Available water capacity sits at 0.178 in/in, slightly under the state benchmark of 0.186.

Water Management Needs

Detailed drainage records are not currently available, yet the soil score of 44.1 indicates moderate challenges for intensive use. Homeowners should observe runoff patterns during heavy rains to plan their landscapes effectively.

Ready for Zone 7a

Falling in hardiness zone 7a, Allen County is perfect for everything from spring greens to late-harvest squash. Enrich your soil with compost and start your backyard garden this season.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 17.7%
Silt: 62.8%
Clay: 19.4%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

5.5pH
5.54835028927388
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Series

Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.

Hydrologic Group

Hydrologic group data not available.

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Silt Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Allen County have?

Allen County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 63% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Allen County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Allen County's soil has a pH of 5.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Allen County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Allen County.

What crops or plants grow well in Allen County's soil?

Based on Allen County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.5, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.

What USDA soil order is found in Allen County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Allen County is not currently available in our dataset.

Other Counties in Kentucky

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.