Hocking County Soil Data
Hocking County, Ohio
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Hocking County, Ohio
Developing Entisols in Forest Country
Hocking County's soil consists of Entisols with a fairly acidic pH of 5.53, well below the national median of 6.5. This contributes to a soil score of 52.7, reflecting the young and relatively undeveloped nature of the local earth. These soils are often found in areas where landscape changes are more frequent.
High Silt Content Challenges
The soil contains 57.1% silt, making it feel floury when dry and slippery when wet. With 22.9% sand and 18.7% clay, the physical structure relies heavily on the silt fraction. This mix requires careful timing for tilling to avoid damaging the soil's structure.
Moderate Water Capacity
Organic matter is relatively low at 2.51% compared to the state average of 4.85%. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.191 in/in is slightly higher than the state average of 0.186. This helps native vegetation and crops survive dry spells more effectively than in many other counties.
Adapting to Sloped Hydrology
The Entisol classification suggests these soils are often found on slopes, where erosion control is a primary concern. While specific drainage classes are unavailable, the high silt content can lead to slow infiltration and runoff issues. Managing water flow is critical for maintaining soil health in this region.
Lush Native Growth in 6b
Hocking County's environment in zone 6b is ideal for forests and acid-tolerant plants like blueberries and ferns. Gardeners may need to apply lime to raise the pH for more sensitive vegetables. Embrace the natural acidity by planting native species that thrive in these woodland-like soils.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Hocking County have?
Hocking County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 57% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hocking County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hocking County's soil has a pH of 5.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Hocking County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hocking County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hocking County's soil?
Based on Hocking County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.5, 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 Hocking County?
Hocking County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
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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.