Cass County Soil Data
Cass County, Iowa
Avg pH
6.2
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Cass County, Iowa
Acidic and Silt-Rich Soils
Cass County has a more acidic soil profile with an average pH of 6.22, notably lower than the 6.5 national median. The county’s soil score of 72.5 is almost identical to the Iowa state average of 72.9. While specific taxonomic data is limited, the chemistry suggests a typical loess-derived soil common in western Iowa.
Dense Silt and Clay Focus
Cass County has very little sand at only 15.1%, with a heavy focus on 55.0% silt and 29.9% clay. This creates a fine-textured soil that is very smooth and has a high capacity for holding onto minerals. However, this lack of sand means the soil can become sticky and difficult to work when it is wet.
Exceptional Water Storage Capacity
The available water capacity in Cass is 0.201 in/in, which is among the highest in the region and beats the state average of 0.195 in/in. While organic matter is lower than the state average at 3.17%, it still beats the national average of 2.0%. This soil acts as a powerful reservoir, keeping crops hydrated during dry Iowa summers.
Slower Drainage, Higher Retention
No specific drainage class is currently mapped, but the high clay and silt content (nearly 85% combined) suggests slow water movement. This soil is designed to hold onto every drop of rain it receives, which is a major advantage in non-irrigated agriculture. Gardeners should be mindful of drainage to prevent soil from becoming waterlogged during wet springs.
Growing in a Milder Zone 5b
Cass County sits in Zone 5b, offering a slightly longer growing season than its neighbors to the north. The high water capacity makes it an ideal spot for moisture-loving perennials and berry bushes. Use the nutrient-holding power of this silty soil to grow a productive and resilient backyard garden.
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cass County have?
Cass County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 15% sand, 55% silt, and 30% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cass County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cass County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Cass County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cass County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cass County's soil?
Based on Cass County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.2, 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 Cass County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cass County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cass 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.