Clark County Soil Data
Clark County, Kentucky
Avg pH
6.2
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Clark County, Kentucky
Balanced Soil in the Bluegrass
Clark County presents a soil profile with an average pH of 6.16, making it more neutral than the Kentucky state average of 5.80. While it sits slightly below the national median of 6.5, this acidity level is ideal for many regional forage crops. The overall soil score of 64.4 indicates high quality compared to the state average of 56.2.
Silt-Heavy Soils Drive Consistency
The county's soil consists of 53.6% silt and 27.8% clay, creating a heavy but productive texture. With only 18.6% sand, these soils hold onto nutrients well but require careful management to prevent compaction. This mix offers a stable foundation for the county's diverse agricultural landscape.
Strong Water Retention for Growth
With an Available Water Capacity of 0.189 in/in, Clark County exceeds the state average for moisture storage. The organic matter content sits at 2.75%, which is higher than the national average of 2.0% but lower than the state mark of 3.55%. This combination provides a reliable reservoir for crops during drier summer months.
Managed Hydrology and Drainage
Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are currently limited for this area. However, the high silt and clay content suggests that water moves slowly through the profile. Farmers and builders should account for this natural retention when planning irrigation or site drainage.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 6b
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, Clark County is perfect for cool-season grasses, berries, and native hardwoods. The balanced pH and high water capacity make it an excellent spot for a home vegetable garden. Start your planting in early spring to take full advantage of these fertile Bluegrass soils.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Clark County have?
Clark County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 54% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Clark County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Clark County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Clark County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Clark County.
What crops or plants grow well in Clark County's soil?
Based on Clark County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.2, 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 Clark County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Clark County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Clark County on LawnByCounty.com →
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.