Ross County Soil Data

Ross County, Ohio

Avg pH

6.0

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

5.2%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Ross County, Ohio

Optimal Acidity for Growth

Ross County features an average soil pH of 6.02, which is slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.97. While taxonomic data is currently limited, this pH level is ideal for unlocking most essential plant nutrients.

Silky Silts of the Scioto Valley

The soil is dominated by 51.1% silt and 24.5% sand, offering a smooth texture that roots can easily navigate. The 18.9% clay content provides a decent exchange capacity to hold on to fertilizers.

Rich in Organic Life

Ross County boasts a high organic matter content of 5.23%, beating the already high state average of 4.85%. Its water capacity of 0.193 in/in further supports vigorous plant life through dry summer periods.

Deep Water Storage

Formal drainage classifications are limited, but the high organic content and available water capacity suggest a soil that manages moisture well. This profile generally provides a buffer against both light droughts and heavy rains.

Thriving in Zone 6b

With an impressive soil score of 71.0 and a warm 6b hardiness zone, Ross County is a gardener's dream. The high organic matter and favorable pH make it easy to start growing everything from tomatoes to timber.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 24.5%
Silt: 51.1%
Clay: 18.9%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.0pH
6.0225607998056
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Series

Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.

Hydrologic Group

Hydrologic group data not available.

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Silt Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Ross County have?

Ross County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 51% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Ross County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Ross County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Ross County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Ross County.

What crops or plants grow well in Ross County's soil?

Based on Ross County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.0, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.

What USDA soil order is found in Ross County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Ross County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.