Delaware County Soil Data

Delaware County, Ohio

Avg pH

6.2

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

3.5%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Delaware County, Ohio

High-Quality Growing Conditions

Delaware County maintains a high soil score of 74.8 and a pH of 6.17. This pH is more alkaline than the state average of 5.97, though still below the national median of 6.5.

Fine Texture for Seedbeds

The profile is largely silt-driven at 51.8%, combined with 24.4% sand and 22.3% clay. This silt-heavy mix provides a fine, floury texture that is excellent for seed-to-soil contact in the spring.

High Water Retention Potential

Organic matter stands at 3.53%, trailing the state average but remaining well above the national 2.0% benchmark. The soil's available water capacity is quite high at 0.206 in/in, outperforming the state average.

Strong Nutrient Retention

While specific drainage classifications are not listed, the 22.3% clay content suggests the soil has a high capacity for nutrient retention. Residents should monitor for slow drainage in low-lying areas during the rainy season.

Perennials Thrive in Zone 6b

Delaware County is in hardiness zone 6b, offering a slightly milder winter than northern neighbors. The high water capacity makes this soil perfect for moisture-loving perennials and productive vegetable gardens.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 24.4%
Silt: 51.8%
Clay: 22.3%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.2pH
6.16782443618577
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Delaware County have?

Delaware County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 52% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Delaware County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Delaware 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 Delaware County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Delaware County.

What crops or plants grow well in Delaware County's soil?

Based on Delaware County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.2, 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 Delaware County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Delaware County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.