Cerro Gordo County Soil Data
Cerro Gordo County, Iowa
Avg pH
6.7
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
5.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Cerro Gordo County, Iowa
Alkaline Leaning Soils in Cerro Gordo
The county maintains an average pH of 6.68, which is slightly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the Iowa state average of 6.43. While specific taxonomic data for this region is currently unclassified, the overall soil health is strong with a score of 77.2.
A Balanced Blend of Silt and Sand
The soil features a mix of 40.5% silt and 34.9% sand, providing a texture that balances aeration with structure. A clay content of 22.7% helps the ground hold onto essential minerals without becoming overly compacted.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter in this county reaches a high of 5.31%, far exceeding the state average of 3.81%. Although the available water capacity of 0.193 in/in is just below the state benchmark, the high nutrient levels make for very productive land.
Reliable Water Movement
Official drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unspecified for this county in national records. However, the significant sand and silt concentrations typically suggest the soil moves water efficiently through the root zone.
Prime for Zone 5a Gardening
Located in hardiness zone 5a, this soil is ideal for cool-weather staples like brassicas and root vegetables. Take advantage of the high organic fertility and start your home garden this season.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cerro Gordo County have?
Cerro Gordo County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 40% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cerro Gordo County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cerro Gordo County's soil has a pH of 6.7, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Cerro Gordo County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cerro Gordo County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cerro Gordo County's soil?
Based on Cerro Gordo County's Loam texture, pH of 6.7, 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 Cerro Gordo County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cerro Gordo County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cerro Gordo 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.