Bremer County Soil Data
Bremer County, Iowa
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Bremer County, Iowa
Bremer's Slightly Acidic Foundation
Bremer County's soil maintains an average pH of 6.29, which is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.43. While specific taxonomic data is currently limited, this pH level remains within a healthy range for most Midwestern field crops. The overall soil score of 66.4 sits just below the statewide average of 72.9.
A Coarse and Silt-Heavy Mix
The soil composition is relatively light, consisting of 41.2% sand, 39.4% silt, and 18.2% clay. This high sand percentage makes the ground easier to work in the spring but may lead to faster nutrient leaching compared to heavier soils. The moderate clay content helps provide enough structure to prevent total erosion.
Strong Organic Matter Performance
At 4.04%, Bremer County’s organic matter exceeds both the Iowa average of 3.81% and the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity of 0.173 in/in is lower than the state benchmark of 0.195 in/in. This means the soil is naturally fertile but may struggle to hold onto that moisture during peak summer heat.
Managing Rapid Moisture Flow
While specific drainage classes are not currently mapped for this county, the high sand content suggests relatively rapid infiltration. Users should expect a landscape that dries out quickly after heavy rains, which is beneficial for avoiding root rot in gardens. Proper mulching is recommended to counteract the potential for quick drying.
Cold-Hardy Growing in Zone 5a
Bremer County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, where the sandy-silt soil is perfect for root vegetables like carrots and parsnips. The high organic matter provides a great head start for hungry perennials. Grab some seeds and take advantage of this workable, nutrient-rich earth this spring.
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: Loam
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 Bremer County have?
Bremer County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 41% sand, 39% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Bremer County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Bremer County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Bremer County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Bremer County.
What crops or plants grow well in Bremer County's soil?
Based on Bremer County's Loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Bremer County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Bremer County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Bremer County
Soil Verdict
Bremer 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
Bremer County closely matches the Iowa average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bremer County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Iowa
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.