Wayne County Soil Data
Wayne County, Ohio
Avg pH
5.8
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
5.8%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Wayne County, Ohio
Wayne’s Productive Silt Loam
Wayne County is anchored by Alfisols with a dominant silt loam texture and a pH of 5.80. This pH is just below the state average of 5.97, indicating a slightly acidic environment typical of Ohio's prime farmland. With a soil score of 69.3, this land is among the more productive in the region.
Ideal Mix for Silt Loam
The soil contains 51.4% silt, 27.1% sand, and a low 16.3% clay content. This high silt-to-clay ratio gives the soil a floury feel and makes it incredibly easy to work with hand tools or tractors. It strikes the perfect balance for holding nutrients without becoming a sticky mess when wet.
Rich in Life and Water
The organic matter in Wayne County is exceptional at 5.82%, well above the state average of 4.85%. Coupled with an available water capacity of 0.196 in/in, this soil acts like a sponge for both nutrients and moisture. It is designed by nature to support high-yield agriculture and lush gardens.
Well Drained with Moderate Runoff
Though the soil is well-drained, it falls into hydrologic group C, meaning it has a slower rate of water transmission through the lower layers. This suggests that while the surface stays dry, the subsoil holds onto water longer. It’s an ideal setup for crops that need a steady water supply through the summer.
Agricultural Excellence in Zone 6a
Wayne County is a gardener's dream in zone 6a, supporting everything from dairies to diverse produce. The high organic matter means your plants have a natural reservoir of nitrogen and carbon. Dig in today and enjoy some of the best soil quality Ohio has to offer.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Wayne County have?
Wayne County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 51% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Wayne County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Wayne County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Wayne County?
Wayne 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 Wayne County's soil?
Based on Wayne County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.8, 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 Wayne County?
Wayne 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 Wayne 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.