Carroll County Soil Data
Carroll County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
8.0%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Carroll County, Ohio
Acidic Alfisols in the Rolling Hills
Carroll County's Alfisols have a pH of 5.53, making them much more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This low pH level reflects the county's distinct forest-soil heritage compared to the 5.97 state average.
Silky Silt Loam Texture
The soil is nearly half silt at 49.0%, paired with 25.9% sand and 16.5% clay. This silt loam mix provides excellent workability for farmers but can be prone to erosion on slopes.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
At 8.02%, Carroll's organic matter is nearly double the Ohio average of 4.85%. This rich carbon content offsets a lower water capacity of 0.151 in/in, providing a fertile foundation for hardy crops.
Somewhat Poorly Drained Slopes
Classified as somewhat poorly drained, these soils belong to hydrologic group C/D. Surface runoff is a key concern for local landowners, as the clay sublayers can slow downward water movement.
Acid-Loving Plants Excel in 6b
In USDA zone 6b, this acidic, high-organic soil is perfect for blueberries and rhododendrons. While most vegetables will need lime to raise the pH, the rich soil structure offers incredible potential for dedicated gardeners.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Somewhat poorly drained
Water is removed slowly enough that the soil is wet at shallow depths for significant periods. Mottling present.
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 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Carroll County have?
Carroll County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 49% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Carroll County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Carroll County's soil has a pH of 5.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Carroll County?
Carroll County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Carroll County's soil?
Based on Carroll County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Somewhat poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Carroll County?
Carroll County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Carroll County
Soil Verdict
Carroll 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
Carroll County closely matches the Ohio average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Carroll County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Ohio
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.