Pike County Soil Data
Pike County, Kentucky
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
9.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pike County, Kentucky
Rich Acidic Soils of the Mountains
Pike County features an average soil pH of 5.91, which is slightly more alkaline than the Kentucky average of 5.80. While it sits below the national median of 6.5, this acidic profile is ideal for many native Appalachian plants. The overall soil score of 55.0 puts it just under the state average for productivity.
A Silty Mix with High Workability
The soil composition is dominated by 43.1% silt and 33.9% sand, providing a balanced texture that is easier to work than heavy clay. With only 14.7% clay content, these soils offer decent drainage but may require amendments to prevent nutrient leaching. This mix allows for good root penetration for both crops and native timber.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
Pike County boasts an impressive 9.00% organic matter, nearly triple the Kentucky state average of 3.55%. This high carbon content provides a massive reservoir of nutrients, though the available water capacity of 0.134 in/in is lower than the state average of 0.186. This means the soil is highly fertile but may dry out faster during Kentucky summers.
Water Dynamics in the East
Formal drainage classes are not currently mapped for this county, but the low clay content suggests water moves relatively freely. Because the water capacity is lower than the state average, supplemental irrigation may be necessary during dry spells. Proper site selection is key to managing the natural runoff typical of this mountainous region.
Thriving in the 7a Mountains
Situated in Hardiness Zone 7a, Pike County is a prime location for acid-loving plants like azaleas, rhododendrons, and potatoes. The high organic matter provides a fantastic head start for any vegetable garden or small-scale orchard. Grab some seeds and take advantage of this nutrient-dense mountain soil.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pike County have?
Pike County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 43% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pike County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pike County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Pike County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pike County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pike County's soil?
Based on Pike County's Loam texture, pH of 5.9, 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 Pike County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pike County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pike County
Soil Verdict
Pike 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
Pike County closely matches the Kentucky average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pike 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.