Clinton County Soil Data
Clinton County, Kentucky
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Clinton County, Kentucky
Silty Soils on the Cumberland Plateau
Clinton County soils are moderately acidic with an average pH of 5.53, slightly below the state average of 5.80. The county earns a soil score of 47.1, reflecting its specific regional challenges. These soils are typical for the southern border, requiring careful nutrient management for peak performance.
Silty Texture Dominates the Land
The soil composition is over half silt at 50.2%, balanced by 28.5% sand and 21.3% clay. This silty-loam characteristic provides a smooth texture that is relatively easy for farmers to till. However, the silt levels make the soil susceptible to erosion if left uncovered during heavy rains.
Steady Moisture, Moderate Nutrients
The organic matter content stands at 2.49%, which is slightly above the national average but below the Kentucky state average. Its Available Water Capacity of 0.176 in/in is just under the state benchmark of 0.186. This means the soil holds a fair amount of moisture but benefits from added compost.
Planning for Silt-Based Drainage
Detailed drainage and hydrologic group data are not currently available for this county. Because silt is the primary component, water moves at a moderate pace, but surface crusting can occur after storms. Proper mulch use can help keep the soil surface open and receptive to rainfall.
Ready for a Zone 7a Harvest
In USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, Clinton County gardeners enjoy a generous window for growing tomatoes, peppers, and beans. The silty soil is excellent for root vegetables like carrots and potatoes if the pH is managed. Start your seeds today to capitalize on this reliable southern Kentucky climate.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Clinton County have?
Clinton County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 50% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Clinton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Clinton 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 Clinton County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Clinton County.
What crops or plants grow well in Clinton County's soil?
Based on Clinton 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 Clinton County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Clinton County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Clinton County
Soil Verdict
Clinton 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
Clinton County closely matches the Kentucky average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Clinton 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.