Sandusky County Soil Data
Sandusky County, Ohio
Avg pH
6.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
5.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Sandusky County, Ohio
Young Entisols of the North
Sandusky County is home to Entisols, which are relatively young soils in geologic terms, with a pH of 6.37. This brings the soil closer to the national median of 6.5 than the typical Ohio average.
The Sandiest Soil in the Region
With 40.2% sand, this soil is much coarser than neighboring counties, which usually aids in workability but can drain fast. This is balanced by 36.9% silt and 20.5% clay to maintain some structural integrity.
High Organic Matter, Lower Storage
The county enjoys 5.20% organic matter, well above the 4.85% state average. However, the available water capacity is lower at 0.177 in/in, reflecting the higher sand content's tendency to let water through.
A Challenge with Wetness
Counterintuitively, the soil is classified as very poorly drained despite the sand content. This indicates a high water table or underlying layers that require careful drainage management for farming or building.
Ready for 6b Planting
Sandusky County earns a strong soil score of 71.9, suggesting great potential for those who manage the water table. Zone 6b climate combined with this high-nutrient soil is perfect for specialty crops and home gardens.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Sandusky County have?
Sandusky County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 37% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Sandusky County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Sandusky County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Sandusky County?
Sandusky County has a dominant drainage class of "Very 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 Sandusky County's soil?
Based on Sandusky County's Loam texture, pH of 6.4, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Sandusky County?
Sandusky County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
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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.