Champaign County Soil Data
Champaign County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.2
Texture
Muck
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
4.4%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Champaign County, Ohio
Rich Histosols Define the Landscape
Champaign County features unique Histosols with a pH of 6.25, sitting just below the national median of 6.5. These soils are significantly more alkaline than the Ohio average of 5.97, offering a balanced chemical profile.
The Power of Muck Soil
With a dominant texture described as muck, the mix includes 52.4% silt and 19.9% clay. This combination creates a spongy, carbon-rich environment that is rare compared to typical mineral soils.
Superior Moisture for High Yields
The county boasts a high available water capacity of 0.210 in/in, well above the state average of 0.186. With 4.38% organic matter, the soil provides a steady supply of nutrients for intensive agriculture.
Managing High Water Tables
The soil is very poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group B/D, indicating a high water table. These conditions are ideal for specialized wetland crops but require careful drainage for traditional construction.
Prime Growth in Zone 6a
Hardiness zone 6a and the moisture-rich muck make this a premier spot for root vegetables like carrots and onions. Your garden will thrive in this fertile ground as long as you manage the high moisture levels.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Muck
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 Champaign County have?
Champaign County's soil is classified as Muck. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 25% sand, 52% silt, and 20% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Champaign County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Champaign 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 Champaign County?
Champaign County has a dominant drainage class of "Very 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 Champaign County's soil?
Based on Champaign County's Muck texture, pH of 6.2, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Champaign County?
Champaign County's dominant soil order is Histosols. Histosols are organic soils (peatlands and bogs) with very high organic matter content. They form in wet, poorly drained environments.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Champaign County
Soil Verdict
Champaign County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Champaign County closely matches the Ohio average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Champaign 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.