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Knox County Soil Data

Knox County, Kentucky

USDA SSURGO / PHZM

Avg pH

N/A

Texture

Unknown

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

N/A

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Knox County, Kentucky

The Chemistry of the Cumberland

Specific soil taxonomy for Knox County is not currently listed, but the regional pH typically aligns with the Kentucky average of 5.80. This level is more acidic than the national median of 6.5, which influences what types of crops and trees grow best. Knowledge of this acidity helps farmers make better decisions about soil amendments.

Texture and Soil Workability

While sand, silt, and clay data points are currently missing from the record, their balance remains critical for local drainage. A healthy mix allows water to penetrate the surface without causing stagnant pools or rapid erosion. Residents should pay attention to how their soil feels to gauge its current workability.

Rich State-Level Soil Health

Knox County land benefits from a state organic matter average of 3.55%, far surpassing the national average of 2.0%. Combined with an average water capacity of 0.186 in/in, these soils have the potential to be very productive. This richness is a key asset for the county’s agricultural and forest land alike.

Water Movement in Knox County

The dominant drainage class and hydrologic group for this area are currently unavailable in our database. In river-fed counties like Knox, understanding how your specific plot handles water is vital for both farming and construction. Careful observation of seasonal water tables is recommended for all land users.

Growing Seasons in Zone 7a

Knox County’s 7a hardiness zone offers a reliable window for growing everything from berries to leafy greens. The temperate climate is conducive to a wide variety of gardening projects, whether for hobby or subsistence. Now is the perfect time to explore the diverse plant life that this Kentucky soil can support.

Soil Composition

Composition data not available for this county.

Soil pH

pH data not available for this county.

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: Unknown

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.

Soil Amendment Products

Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.

Browse Soil Amendments

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Knox County have?

Knox County's soil is classified as Unknown. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — sand percentage unavailable, silt percentage unavailable, and clay percentage unavailable. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.

Is Knox County's soil acidic or alkaline?

pH data is not available for Knox County.

What is the drainage class for Knox County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Knox County.

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

Based on Knox County's Unknown texture, soil pH, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for a variety of crops depending on local conditions.

What USDA soil order is found in Knox County?

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

Soil & Planting Advisory: Knox County

Soil Verdict

Knox 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

Knox County closely matches the Kentucky average hardiness conditions.

Other Counties in Kentucky

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

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.