Stark County Soil Data
Stark County, Ohio
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
6.0%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Stark County, Ohio
Stark's Acidic Alfisols
Stark County is defined by Alfisol soils with a pH of 5.49, which is significantly more acidic than the national 6.5 median. These weathered soils are characteristic of the region and often require lime to support sensitive garden plants.
Premium Loam Texture
The dominant texture is Loam, created by a balanced blend of 50.3% silt, 27.4% sand, and 17.0% clay. Loam is the gold standard for gardeners because it balances moisture retention with easy workability.
Rich in Organic Matter
The county boasts an impressive 5.97% organic matter, well above the Ohio average of 4.85%. However, the water capacity of 0.177 in/in is slightly lower than the state average, so mulching is recommended to keep roots cool.
Superior Natural Drainage
Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group A, these soils move water quickly and efficiently. This makes Stark County an ideal location for deep-rooted plants that cannot tolerate 'wet feet'.
Thriving in Zone 6b
Stark’s 6b hardiness zone and loamy soil are perfect for perennial shrubs and fruit trees. With such high organic matter, your soil is already primed to grow a lush and productive landscape.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Stark County have?
Stark County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 50% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Stark County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Stark 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 Stark County?
Stark 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 Stark County's soil?
Based on Stark County's Loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Stark County?
Stark 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Stark 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.