Holmes County Soil Data
Holmes County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
6.4%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Holmes County, Ohio
Rich Alfisols for Productive Land
Holmes County features Alfisols with a pH of 5.56 and an overall soil score of 56.1. Although the pH is lower than the state average of 5.97, the soil is minerals-rich. These soils are historically known for their productivity in temperate climates.
Workable Silt Loam Foundations
The dominant texture is silt loam, composed of 49.9% silt and 27.9% sand. With a low clay content of 15.7%, this soil is easy to till and less likely to form heavy, sticky clods. It provides an excellent physical medium for root expansion and water movement.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
The organic matter content is high at 6.41%, which is significantly better than the state average of 4.85%. However, the available water capacity of 0.167 in/in is slightly below the state benchmark. This combination means the soil is fertile but requires consistent watering during dry periods.
Well Drained and Efficient
These soils are classified as well drained and fall into hydrologic group C. This ensures that excess water moves away from plant roots efficiently, preventing saturation issues. It is an ideal profile for both construction and agriculture because it stays stable and dry.
Orchard and Garden Excellence
Set in hardiness zone 6a, Holmes County is a prime location for orchards and diverse vegetable gardening. The high organic levels mean you'll have a great start for organic farming practices. Get out and plant some hardy perennials to take advantage of this well-drained silt loam.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt 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 Holmes County have?
Holmes County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 28% sand, 50% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Holmes County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Holmes 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 Holmes County?
Holmes County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Holmes County's soil?
Based on Holmes County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.6, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Holmes County?
Holmes 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: Holmes County
Soil Verdict
Holmes 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
Holmes County closely matches the Ohio average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Holmes 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.