Nelson County Soil Data
Nelson County, Kentucky
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Nelson County, Kentucky
Nelson's Slightly Acidic Foundation
Nelson County features an average pH of 5.96, which is more favorable for plant growth than the state average of 5.80. While still below the national median of 6.5, this soil profile supports the lush landscapes typical of the Bluegrass region.
The Power of Silt
The soil composition is dominated by 57.8% silt, paired with 25.5% clay and 16.0% sand. This high silt content makes the soil easy to work, though the significant clay portion helps it retain essential nutrients.
Superior Water Storage
The county's available water capacity of 0.191 in/in outperforms the Kentucky state average of 0.186 in/in. Its 2.32% organic matter content also beats the national average of 2.0%, providing a fertile environment for local farmers.
Hydraulic Stability and Runoff
While specific drainage classes are unavailable, the high silt and clay levels suggest the land retains moisture well. This profile requires mindful drainage planning to avoid saturation during the state's frequent spring rains.
Grown in Zone 7a
Nelson County's Zone 7a status allows for a wide range of crops, from corn to premium tobacco and wine grapes. Local gardeners can enjoy a long season, making this a perfect place to plant a diverse backyard orchard.
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 6.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Nelson County have?
Nelson County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 58% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Nelson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Nelson County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Nelson County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Nelson County.
What crops or plants grow well in Nelson County's soil?
Based on Nelson County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.0, 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 Nelson County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Nelson County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Nelson County
Soil Verdict
Nelson 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
Nelson County closely matches the Kentucky average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Nelson 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.