Tuscarawas County Soil Data
Tuscarawas County, Ohio
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.7%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Tuscarawas County, Ohio
Tuscarawas's Loamy Alfisols
Tuscarawas County rests on Alfisol soils with an acidic pH of 5.57. This is lower than the state average and the 6.5 national median, often requiring the addition of lime to help garden plants absorb nutrients efficiently.
Perfect Loam Balance
The soil is classified as Loam, featuring a balanced mix of 52.0% silt, 28.0% sand, and 17.5% clay. This 'Goldilocks' texture is highly desirable because it drains well while still retaining enough moisture for plants.
Moderate Nutrient Reserves
Organic matter is at 3.71%, which is lower than the state average but still far above the national 2.0% benchmark. The available water capacity of 0.173 in/in is slightly below the state average, so regular watering is key during dry spells.
Efficient Water Drainage
Classified as well-drained and part of Hydrologic Group B, these soils move water effectively through the profile. This reduces the risk of root rot and makes the land stable for various building and landscaping projects.
Diverse Planting in 6b
The 6b hardiness zone supports a long growing season for everything from peppers to perennial flowers. Your well-drained loam is an ideal foundation for starting a productive and healthy backyard garden.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Tuscarawas County have?
Tuscarawas County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 28% sand, 52% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Tuscarawas County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Tuscarawas County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Tuscarawas County?
Tuscarawas 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 Tuscarawas County's soil?
Based on Tuscarawas County's Loam texture, pH of 5.6, 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 Tuscarawas County?
Tuscarawas 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: Tuscarawas County
Soil Verdict
Tuscarawas County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Tuscarawas 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 Tuscarawas 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.