Madison County Soil Data
Madison County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Muck
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
6.5%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Madison County, Ohio
A Mucky Base with Histosols Heritage
Madison County's soil consists of Histosols with a distinctive muck texture and an average pH of 6.27. While slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, it remains significantly less acidic than the state average of 5.97. These characteristics indicate a soil rich in organic material and history.
High Silt Levels Support Soil Structure
The soil composition features 51.7% silt and 21.1% clay, mixed with 22.7% sand. This balance provides a stable structure that retains nutrients well but can feel heavy when wet. Workability depends on timing, as the high silt content makes the soil susceptible to surface crusting.
Elite Fertility Outperforms the State
With an organic matter content of 6.49%, Madison County far exceeds the Ohio average of 4.85%. The available water capacity reaches 0.212 in/in, which is significantly higher than the state benchmark of 0.186. This combination creates an exceptional environment for intensive crop production.
Navigating Very Poor Drainage Challenges
The dominant drainage class is 'very poorly drained' with an A/D hydrologic group designation. This means the soil requires careful water management, such as tiling or raised beds, to be productive for farming or building. Without proper intervention, the soil holds water for long periods.
Abundant Growth in Zone 6a
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, this county is a powerhouse for corn, soybeans, and moisture-tolerant vegetables. Gardeners should embrace the high organic matter to grow lush greens and heavy-feeding perennials. Start your garden today to take advantage of some of Ohio's highest-quality soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
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: Muck
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Madison County have?
Madison County's soil is classified as Muck. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 52% silt, and 21% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Madison County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Madison County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Madison County?
Madison 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 Madison County's soil?
Based on Madison County's Muck texture, pH of 6.3, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Madison County?
Madison County's dominant soil order is Histosols. Histosols are organic soils (peatlands and bogs) with very high organic matter content. They form in wet, poorly drained environments.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Madison County
Soil Verdict
Madison 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
Madison 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 Madison 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.