Columbiana County Soil Data
Columbiana County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
9.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Columbiana County, Ohio
Intense Acidity and Rich Carbon
Columbiana County soil is quite acidic with a pH of 5.46, falling well below the national median of 6.5. This acidity is typical of the region's high-organic upland soils compared to the state average of 5.97.
Silt and Sand Dominance
The soil consists of 49.3% silt and 23.6% sand, with a relatively low clay content of 16.5%. This creates a friable texture that is easy to dig, though it requires care to prevent erosion.
Massive Organic Matter Reserves
At 9.29%, the organic matter content is nearly double the Ohio average of 4.85%. This massive carbon reserve provides incredible natural fertility, though the water capacity of 0.173 in/in is slightly below the state average.
High Organic Content Influences Water
While official drainage classifications are not recorded here, the exceptionally high organic matter suggests the soil acts like a sponge. Landowners should monitor for localized saturation in low-lying areas.
Vibrant Zone 6a Gardens
This acidic, organic-rich soil is a dream for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas. If you want to grow vegetables, a little lime will unlock the massive nutrient potential held in this dark, rich earth.
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 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Columbiana County have?
Columbiana County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 49% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Columbiana County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Columbiana County's soil has a low pH of 5.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Columbiana County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Columbiana County.
What crops or plants grow well in Columbiana County's soil?
Based on Columbiana County's Loam texture, pH of 5.5, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Columbiana County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Columbiana County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Columbiana County
Soil Verdict
Columbiana 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
Columbiana 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 Columbiana 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.