Fleming County Soil Data
Fleming County, Kentucky
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.8
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Fleming County, Kentucky
Near-State Average pH in Fleming
Fleming County features an average pH of 5.77, which sits very close to the state average of 5.80. This is more acidic than the national median of 6.5, suggesting a need for lime in many agricultural applications.
Silt-Dominant Textures
The soil is composed of 58.3% silt and 21.1% clay, creating a heavy but nutrient-rich profile. With only 20.6% sand, these soils may feel slick when wet but offer strong structural support for crops.
Solid Water Retention Potential
Organic matter levels at 2.37% exceed the national average of 2.0% but lag behind the Kentucky state average of 3.55%. Its water capacity of 0.189 in/in is slightly better than the state benchmark, keeping crops hydrated.
Monitoring Silt Compaction
The high silt content suggests the soil holds onto moisture effectively for farming. However, managers should monitor for compaction, as these fine-textured silts can settle tightly over time.
Planting Roots in Zone 6b
Located in Hardiness Zone 6b, Fleming County is ideal for growing corn, soybeans, and hardy berries. The soil score of 54.9 indicates solid agricultural potential for anyone looking to start a farm.
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 5.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Fleming County have?
Fleming County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 21% sand, 58% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Fleming County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Fleming County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Fleming County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Fleming County.
What crops or plants grow well in Fleming County's soil?
Based on Fleming County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.8, 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 Fleming County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Fleming County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Fleming County
Soil Verdict
Fleming County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Fleming County is somewhat cooler than the Kentucky statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Fleming 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.