Scott County Soil Data
Scott County, Kentucky
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Scott County, Kentucky
Prime pH levels for Bluegrass success
Scott County boasts an average soil pH of 6.44, which sits nearly perfectly against the national median of 6.5. This high-performing soil achieves an overall score of 73.0, far exceeding the Kentucky state average of 56.2. While specific taxonomic data is currently limited, the chemical balance suggests a highly productive environment for diverse agriculture.
Silt-heavy soils provide excellent structure
The earth here consists of 63.1% silt and 23.0% clay, with a relatively low sand content of 13.9%. This silty profile ensures a fine texture that holds onto nutrients better than sandier neighbors. The balanced mix provides a sturdy foundation for roots and maintains reliable workability throughout the growing season.
Strong water capacity boosts crop resilience
Scott County features an available water capacity of 0.193 in/in, outperforming the state average of 0.186. Organic matter remains healthy at 2.87%, which is higher than the national average of 2.0% despite being lower than the Kentucky mean. These metrics indicate a soil that stays hydrated and nutrient-dense during dry spells.
Reliable moisture management in the field
Though specific drainage class data is unavailable for this area, the high silt concentration typically promotes moderate drainage speeds. The county’s soil score suggests that hydrology rarely presents a barrier to construction or farming. Local growers should still monitor for low spots that may collect water during heavy Kentucky rains.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 6b
With its excellent soil score and 6b hardiness rating, Scott County is an ideal home for tobacco, corn, and hardy perennials. The near-neutral pH allows for a wide variety of vegetables without heavy lime applications. Grab your gardening gloves and start a plot to take advantage of some of the state’s best dirt.
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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Scott County have?
Scott County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 14% sand, 63% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Scott County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Scott County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Scott County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Scott County.
What crops or plants grow well in Scott County's soil?
Based on Scott County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Scott County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Scott County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Scott County
Soil Verdict
Scott 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
Scott County is somewhat cooler than the Kentucky statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Scott 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.