Mahoning County Soil Data
Mahoning County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
5.6%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Mahoning County, Ohio
Acidic Alfisols Form the Foundation
Mahoning County is characterized by Alfisols with a silt loam texture and an average pH of 5.40. This pH is notably more acidic than both the national median of 6.5 and the Ohio average of 5.97. Local growers often need to apply lime to balance the soil for most standard crops.
Silt Loam Provides Balanced Texture
The soil contains 50.5% silt and 25.7% sand, balanced by 19.0% clay. This mix offers excellent nutrient retention and fair workability for local farmers. The high silt percentage ensures the soil remains soft to the touch and relatively easy to till.
Strong Organic Content and Water Storage
Mahoning's organic matter sits at 5.63%, comfortably beating the state average of 4.85%. Its available water capacity of 0.185 in/in matches the state average almost exactly. These figures suggest a soil that can sustain plants through brief dry spells without immediate stress.
Well-Drained Soils Simplify Land Use
The county features well-drained soils belonging to hydrologic group C. This drainage class is ideal for a variety of uses, from residential basements to deep-rooted orchards. Water moves through the profile at a steady pace, reducing the risk of root rot in sensitive plants.
Thriving in the 6a Hardiness Zone
Hardiness Zone 6a supports a diverse range of crops including apples, berries, and cool-season vegetables. Because the soil is acidic, acid-loving plants like blueberries and rhododendrons thrive here naturally. It is a fantastic place to start a backyard orchard or a vegetable patch.
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 5.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Mahoning County have?
Mahoning County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 51% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Mahoning County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Mahoning County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Mahoning County?
Mahoning 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 Mahoning County's soil?
Based on Mahoning County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Mahoning County?
Mahoning 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: Mahoning County
Soil Verdict
Mahoning 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
Mahoning 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 Mahoning 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.