09/10/2026
The color of your soil can tell you information about its health, as well as the health of the ecosystem.
Variability in soil color can explain the physical properties, mineral content, and many more characteristics. The Munsell Soil Color Book is a tool that soil scientists can use to determine not just the color of a soil, but compaction, drainage, or organic matter content. A healthy soil will have a topsoil layer that is darker and gradually lightens the deeper you go. If the soil has very little change in color between the topsoil and subsoil, it is a sign that you have poor soil health. Also, when soils are well-drained, they are often brown or red due to oxidation within the soil. When soils are poorly drained, they are often black or grey.
Soil analysis can show us how an area has responded to previous use, or if it can continue to support the current management. What does your soil tell you?
Photo: Indiana NRCS, Soil Pit Station, 2025.
