Monroe County Soil Data
Monroe County, Ohio
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
4.1%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Monroe County, Ohio
Acidic Ultisols Define the Landscape
Monroe County is home to Ultisols with a silt loam texture and a pH of 5.44. This soil is more acidic than both the state average of 5.97 and the national median of 6.5. Ultisols are highly weathered soils, often found in older geological landscapes like those in southeastern Ohio.
High Silt Content Offers Soft Texture
With a high silt percentage of 57.5% and 20.6% clay, this soil feels very smooth and retains moisture well. The sand content is relatively low at 19.2%. This creates a dense soil profile that can be prone to erosion on the county's famous rolling hills.
Above Average Water Storage Capacity
The available water capacity of 0.193 in/in is higher than the state average of 0.186. Organic matter stands at 4.09%, which is slightly lower than the state average of 4.85%. Despite lower organic levels, the soil's ability to hold water makes it resilient during the warmer summer months.
Well-Drained Land with Good Infiltration
Classified as well-drained and belonging to hydrologic group B, this soil handles rainfall effectively. Group B soils have moderate infiltration rates, making them excellent for construction and diverse agricultural uses. You can expect fewer drainage issues here than in many other parts of Ohio.
Warm Zone 6b Growth Potential
The slightly warmer 6b hardiness zone allows for a fantastic variety of perennials and extended-season crops. Acid-loving plants like blueberries will find a natural home in this soil's low pH environment. Embrace the unique geology of Monroe County and start your garden this season.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Monroe County have?
Monroe County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 58% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Monroe County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Monroe 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 Monroe County?
Monroe 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 Monroe County's soil?
Based on Monroe 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 Monroe County?
Monroe County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Monroe 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.