Dickinson County Soil Data
Dickinson County, Iowa
Avg pH
6.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
5.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Dickinson County, Iowa
Sweet, Alkaline Soils of the Lakes
Dickinson County stands out with an average pH of 6.77, making it more alkaline than the state average of 6.43. This 'sweet' soil is excellent for nutrient availability and exceeds the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile helps drive a high soil score of 76.0, well above the state benchmark.
A Gritty and Productive Mix
The soil composition consists of 41.8% silt, 34.2% sand, and 24.0% clay. This relatively high sand content compared to southern Iowa provides excellent aeration and structural stability. The result is a soil that is both breathable for roots and firm enough to support heavy crop yields.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
Dickinson County boasts a remarkable 5.81% organic matter, nearly triple the national average and far exceeding the state's 3.81%. Its available water capacity of 0.194 in/in is almost perfectly aligned with the Iowa state average. This high fertility makes it some of the most productive land in the region.
Highly Retentive Glacial Earth
The combination of high organic matter and a balanced texture creates a soil that manages water with extreme efficiency. With a water capacity of 0.194, the soil provides a consistent supply of moisture to crops even during northern Iowa's variable summers. This stability is a key component of the county's superior soil score.
Rich Growing in Zone 5a
Located in Zone 5a, Dickinson County offers a world-class foundation for gardening despite the colder winters. The 5.81% organic matter is a dream for any grower, meaning you likely won't need much fertilizer for a bumper crop. Plant hearty vegetables like carrots and potatoes to take advantage of this deep, rich 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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Dickinson County have?
Dickinson County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 42% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Dickinson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Dickinson County's soil has a pH of 6.8, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Dickinson County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Dickinson County.
What crops or plants grow well in Dickinson County's soil?
Based on Dickinson County's Loam texture, pH of 6.8, 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 Dickinson County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Dickinson County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Dickinson 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.