Defiance County Soil Data
Defiance County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
3.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Defiance County, Ohio
Ideal pH Levels in Defiance
Defiance County features Alfisols with a loam texture and a pH of 6.28. This pH level is higher than the Ohio average of 5.97 and approaches the ideal national median of 6.5.
A Heavier Loam Blend
The soil is composed of 37.0% silt, 36.8% sand, and 25.4% clay. This high clay percentage creates a heavier loam that requires careful timing to avoid working the ground when it is too wet.
Moderate Fertility and Water Capacity
Organic matter levels sit at 3.20%, which is lower than the state average but still above the national average. The available water capacity of 0.173 in/in is slightly below the state average of 0.186 in/in.
Slow Drainage Dynamics
These soils are somewhat poorly drained and belong to hydrologic group D. This means the land tends to stay wet longer in the spring, often requiring tile drainage for optimal agricultural production.
Resilient Forage and Grains
In hardiness zone 6a, the loamy soil of Defiance is well-suited for resilient forage crops and small grains. Gardeners should consider raised beds to help manage the somewhat poor natural drainage of the native soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
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: 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 Defiance County have?
Defiance County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 37% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Defiance County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Defiance County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Defiance County?
Defiance 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 Defiance County's soil?
Based on Defiance County's Loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Defiance County?
Defiance 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: Defiance County
Soil Verdict
Defiance 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
Defiance County closely matches the Ohio average hardiness conditions.
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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.