Glenn County Soil Data

Glenn County, California

Avg 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

Loam
Sand: 31.6%
Silt: 34.8%
Clay: 25.4%
Loam

Soil pH

5.9pH
5.87198248123402
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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.

Runoff potential:High

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently 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.

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.