Morrow County Soil Data
Morrow County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.1
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.4%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Morrow County, Ohio
The fertile Alfisols of Morrow County
Morrow County is characterized by Alfisols, a highly productive soil order often found under hardwood forests. The average pH of 6.05 is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5 but remains higher than the state average of 5.97. This pH level is ideal for many row crops and garden vegetables without requiring heavy lime applications.
Silt loam provides ideal workability
The dominant texture here is silt loam, consisting of 53.7% silt, 25.4% sand, and 19.6% clay. This specific ratio makes the soil highly workable and provides a great environment for root penetration. Farmers benefit from a soil that holds nutrients well while remaining easy to till in the spring.
Excellent water holding capacity
The soil’s available water capacity of 0.202 in/in is significantly higher than the state average of 0.186 in/in. While the 3.35% organic matter content is below the state average, the high water capacity ensures plants have access to moisture during critical growing periods. This combination gives Morrow County a strong soil score of 70.9.
Well-drained soil with slow runoff
Classified as 'well drained' and belonging to hydrologic group C, these soils manage water effectively but can have slow infiltration when saturated. This setup is generally favorable for building and basement construction compared to wetter neighbors. Proper field tiling can further enhance this land for intensive agricultural use.
Growing potential in zone 6a
In hardiness zone 6a, Morrow County offers a robust environment for corn, soybeans, and diverse vegetable crops. The high silt loam content is particularly friendly for root vegetables and hardy perennials. Get your seeds started early to make the most of this high-quality Ohio earth.
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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Morrow County have?
Morrow County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 25% sand, 54% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Morrow County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Morrow County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Morrow County?
Morrow 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 Morrow County's soil?
Based on Morrow County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.1, 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 Morrow County?
Morrow 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: Morrow County
Soil Verdict
Morrow 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
Morrow County closely matches the Ohio average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Morrow 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.