Latah County Soil Data
Latah County, Idaho
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
51.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Latah County, Idaho
Highly Rated Acidic Soils
Latah County boasts a strong soil score of 74.5, well above the state average of 67.8. The soil is quite acidic with a pH of 5.26, significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. This acidity often requires specific management for certain crops.
Silty Soils of the Palouse
The earth here is 53.4% silt, 28.4% sand, and 14.1% clay. This silty composition creates a fine-textured soil that is typically very easy to work. It provides a stable foundation for the region's world-famous agricultural productivity.
Exceptional Organic Wealth
Organic matter levels reach a remarkable 51.03%, nearly doubling the state average of 27.53%. The available water capacity is also high at 0.376 in/in, ensuring plants have better access to moisture than the state average of 0.269.
Managing Palouse Hydrology
While official drainage classes are not provided in this set, the high silt and organic content suggest efficient moisture handling. Builders and farmers should still monitor runoff to prevent erosion in these productive hills. Proper water management is the key to maintaining this fertile land.
Garden Gold in Zone 6b
Latah County is in hardiness zone 6b, a perfect match for its high-quality soils. The combination of high organic matter and moisture retention makes this a gardener's paradise. Start your garden today and take advantage of some of Idaho's best soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Latah County have?
Latah County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 28% sand, 53% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Latah County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Latah County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Latah County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Latah County.
What crops or plants grow well in Latah County's soil?
Based on Latah County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Latah County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Latah County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Latah County
Soil Verdict
Latah County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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
Latah County closely matches the Idaho average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Latah 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.