Caribou County Soil Data
Caribou County, Idaho
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
N/A
Texture
Unknown
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
N/A
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Caribou County, Idaho
Southeastern Soil Foundations
Caribou County's soil pH data is not currently recorded, but it likely follows the Idaho state average of 6.04. Compared to the national median of 6.5, these soils are slightly more acidic, which can influence mineral solubility and plant health. Local testing is recommended to determine the exact needs of your land.
Texture and Drainage
Data on sand, silt, and clay content for Caribou County is unavailable in this dataset. This composition is the primary factor in how your soil retains moisture and nutrients during the growing season. Identifying whether your soil is sandy or clay-heavy will help you tailor your watering schedule.
Potential for High Yields
Specific organic matter percentages are missing, but Idaho's state average of 27.53% far exceeds the national average of 2.0%. This indicates that the regional soils have high biological potential if managed correctly. The state's average water capacity of 0.269 in/in provides a solid benchmark for local moisture retention.
Hydrology in High Elevation
Drainage classifications are not currently mapped for Caribou County, making local observation essential during the spring melt. Understanding how water interacts with your soil is critical for preventing erosion and protecting local watersheds. Always check your site's drainage before starting new construction or planting.
Growing in Zone 5a
Caribou County is located in hardiness zone 5a, requiring plants that can survive a rigorous winter. Focus on short-season crops like kale, radishes, and early-maturing potatoes to ensure a successful harvest. Start your garden today and enjoy the unique rewards of high-altitude growing.
Soil Composition
Composition data not available for this county.
Soil pH
pH data not available for this county.
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Unknown
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Caribou County have?
Caribou County's soil is classified as Unknown. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — sand percentage unavailable, silt percentage unavailable, and clay percentage unavailable. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Caribou County's soil acidic or alkaline?
pH data is not available for Caribou County.
What is the drainage class for Caribou County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Caribou County.
What crops or plants grow well in Caribou County's soil?
Based on Caribou County's Unknown texture, soil pH, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for a variety of crops depending on local conditions.
What USDA soil order is found in Caribou County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Caribou County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Caribou County
Soil Verdict
Caribou County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°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. With extreme winter lows, any marginally hardy plants need heavy mulch and wind 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
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
Caribou County is somewhat cooler than the Idaho statewide average. The zone range of 5a-5b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Caribou County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Idaho
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.