Mason County Soil Data

Mason County, Kentucky

Avg pH

6.2

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

2.3%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Mason County, Kentucky

Mason County's Balanced Soil Profile

Mason County earns a strong soil score of 64.0, outperforming the state average of 56.2. Its average pH of 6.19 is the highest in this group, sitting very close to the national median of 6.5.

Silt-Heavy Soils for Farming

A high silt content of 59.0% gives these soils a smooth, workable texture. This is balanced by 21.7% clay and 19.3% sand, a mix that provides excellent structure and nutrient retention for various crops.

Solid Moisture and Nutrient Foundation

Organic matter stands at 2.34%, which beats the national average of 2.0% but is lower than the Kentucky average. The available water capacity is high at 0.194 in/in, ensuring better-than-average hydration for local plants.

Reliable Performance for Growers

While specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are unmapped, the soil score suggests a very productive landscape. The balanced silt and clay levels provide a stable foundation for both agriculture and construction.

Harvesting in Zone 6b

Mason County is in Hardiness Zone 6b, which is slightly cooler than its southern neighbors. The healthy pH level makes this an ideal spot to grow a wide range of vegetables, from brassicas to beans.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 19.3%
Silt: 59.0%
Clay: 21.7%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.2pH
6.18853933955846
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 Mason County have?

Mason County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 59% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Mason County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Mason 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 Mason County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Mason County.

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

Based on Mason County's Silt 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 Mason County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Mason 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.