Glenn County Soil Data
Glenn County, California
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Glenn County, California
Acidic Sacramento Valley Soils
Glenn County features an average soil pH of 5.87, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This level is also lower than the California average of 6.34, suggesting a need for lime if growing acid-sensitive crops. The county's overall soil score sits at 39.7 out of 100.
Balanced Texture for Stability
The soil contains 31.6% sand, 34.8% silt, and 25.4% clay, creating a loamy profile. This mix provides enough clay for nutrient retention while silt and sand maintain workability. It offers a solid foundation for many types of agricultural production.
Moderate Nutrient Potential
Organic matter stands at 2.54%, beating the national 2.0% average but falling short of the state’s 3.30%. The available water capacity is 0.127 in/in, which is slightly below the California average of 0.141. You may need more frequent irrigation during dry spells to keep plants hydrated.
High Runoff Risk
This county is classified under Hydrologic Group D, indicating very slow infiltration and high runoff potential. Water does not move through this soil easily, which can lead to pooling during heavy rains. Careful drainage planning is required for both farming and construction.
Olives and Rice Country
Hardiness Zone 9b provides a long, warm season for olives, rice, and almonds. The local climate pairs perfectly with the soil's structure if you manage water carefully. Start your orchard today to take advantage of this productive valley land.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
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 5.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Glenn County have?
Glenn County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 35% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Glenn County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Glenn County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Glenn County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Glenn County.
What crops or plants grow well in Glenn County's soil?
Based on Glenn County's Loam texture, pH of 5.9, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Glenn County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Glenn County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Glenn County
Soil Verdict
Glenn County is in USDA hardiness zone 9b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 25°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. 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
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Glenn County closely matches the California average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Glenn County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in California
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.