Harrison County Soil Data
Harrison County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
8.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Harrison County, Ohio
Acidic Silts with High Organic Potential
Harrison County features an acidic soil profile with a pH of 5.61, which is lower than the state average of 5.97. Despite the acidity, the county maintains a soil score of 54.7. While taxonomic data is limited, the chemical profile suggests a landscape shaped by significant organic accumulation.
Fine Silt Dominates the Landscape
The soil is half silt at 50.0%, combined with 22.1% sand and 19.2% clay. This high silt concentration creates a floury texture that is generally easy to work but susceptible to surface crusting. It holds nutrients effectively but requires care to avoid heavy compaction.
Rich Organic Reserves
At 8.01%, the organic matter content is four times the national average and significantly higher than the state's 4.85%. However, the available water capacity of 0.153 in/in is below the state average of 0.186. This means that while the soil is nutrient-rich, it may dry out faster during the peak of summer.
Managing Moisture in Silt
The high silt levels impact how water moves through the profile, necessitating careful monitoring of drainage. Without specific hydrologic data, gardeners should focus on maintaining surface breathability to prevent water from pooling. Proper mulching can help mitigate the lower-than-average water capacity.
A Haven for Acid-Loving Plants
Harrison County falls in hardiness zone 6b, which is perfect for berries and shrubs that prefer lower pH levels. The exceptional organic matter provides a lush foundation for perennials and small orchards. Start a fruit patch today to take full advantage of this unique soil chemistry.
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 5.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Harrison County have?
Harrison County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 50% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Harrison County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Harrison County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Harrison County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Harrison County.
What crops or plants grow well in Harrison County's soil?
Based on Harrison County's Loam texture, pH of 5.6, 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 Harrison County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Harrison County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Harrison County
Soil Verdict
Harrison 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
Harrison County closely matches the Ohio average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Harrison 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.