Fayette County Soil Data
Fayette County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.5
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.8%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Fayette County, Ohio
Elite Mollisols of Fayette
Fayette County features Mollisols, which are among the most fertile soils in the world, with a near-ideal pH of 6.49. This is significantly higher than the Ohio average of 5.97 and right at the national median.
Heavy Silty Clay Loam
The dominant texture is silty clay loam, consisting of 50.8% silt, 25.3% sand, and 22.6% clay. This heavy texture provides exceptional structural stability and a high capacity for nutrient storage.
Resilient and Productive Soil
Organic matter is lower at 2.82% compared to the state average, but the soil remains highly productive. The available water capacity of 0.195 in/in is better than the state average, aiding crop resilience.
Managing a High Water Table
These soils are classified as very poorly drained and fall into hydrologic group B/D. This indicates a high water table that requires significant drainage management for both farming and basement construction.
Agricultural Excellence in 6b
In hardiness zone 6b, Fayette County is a premier spot for high-yield agriculture. The Mollisol base is perfect for a lush home garden, provided you manage the naturally heavy moisture.
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: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Fayette County have?
Fayette County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 25% sand, 51% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Fayette County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Fayette County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Fayette County?
Fayette 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 Fayette County's soil?
Based on Fayette County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.5, and Very 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 Fayette County?
Fayette County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Fayette County
Soil Verdict
Fayette 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
Fayette 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 Fayette 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.