Pike County Soil Data
Pike County, Ohio
Avg pH
5.7
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
4.0%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Pike County, Ohio
Rich Silt Loam of the Uplands
Pike County features Alfisols with a dominant silt loam texture and an average pH of 5.67. This makes the local ground more acidic than both the state average of 5.97 and the national median of 6.5.
High Silt for Easy Working
A heavy 51.9% silt concentration gives these soils a smooth, flour-like feel that is exceptionally easy to till. Combined with 24.3% sand and 19.0% clay, the soil offers a balanced medium for root penetration.
Solid Water Retention Capacity
Pike County boasts 3.99% organic matter, nearly doubling the national average. Its available water capacity of 0.189 in/in sits just above the state average, providing a reliable reservoir for plant growth.
Rapid Water Infiltration
Categorized in hydrologic group A, these soils allow water to move quickly through the profile. The well-drained status is excellent for preventing root rot but may require more frequent watering during intense heat waves.
Zone 6b Growth Potential
In hardiness zone 6b, the soil score of 60.6 supports a wide variety of timber and fruit crops. Gardeners can thrive here by adding a bit of lime to balance the natural acidity of the silt loam.
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
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 Pike County have?
Pike County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 52% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pike County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pike County's soil has a pH of 5.7, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Pike County?
Pike 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 Pike County's soil?
Based on Pike County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.7, 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 Pike County?
Pike 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.
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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.