Portage County Soil Data
Portage County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
6.2%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Portage County, Ohio
Portage's High-Acid Loam Soils
Portage County is characterized by Alfisols with a loam texture and a notably acidic pH of 5.46. This is significantly more acidic than the state average of 5.97, which can influence nutrient availability for certain crops.
The Classic Loam Balance
The soil is composed of 50.0% silt, 28.9% sand, and 16.5% clay, providing a textbook loam structure. This mix provides excellent workability and enough clay to hold onto vital plant nutrients.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
At 6.15% organic matter, Portage County far exceeds the Ohio state average of 4.85%. This high biological activity helps offset the slightly lower available water capacity of 0.185 in/in.
Managing the Wet Season
The soil is classified as somewhat poorly drained, falling into hydrologic group C/D. This means drainage can be slow, requiring careful management or raised beds for sensitive garden plants and home foundations.
Cold-Hardy Growth in Zone 6a
Situated in hardiness zone 6a, this county is perfect for acid-loving plants like blueberries and rhododendrons. Despite a soil score of 59.2, the rich organic matter makes it a rewarding place for a backyard garden.
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
Somewhat poorly drained
Water is removed slowly enough that the soil is wet at shallow depths for significant periods. Mottling present.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Portage County have?
Portage County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 50% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Portage County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Portage County's soil has a low pH of 5.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Portage County?
Portage County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat 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 Portage County's soil?
Based on Portage County's Loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Somewhat poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Portage County?
Portage 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: Portage County
Soil Verdict
Portage 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
Portage 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 Portage 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.