Hancock County Soil Data
Hancock County, Iowa
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.7
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
7.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Hancock County, Iowa
Slightly Alkaline Soils Near the National Median
Hancock County features an average soil pH of 6.72, which sits just above the national median of 6.5. This measurement is higher than the Iowa state average of 6.43, providing a less acidic environment for local crops. While specific taxonomic classifications are currently unavailable, the overall soil score of 81.8 is significantly higher than the state average.
A Balanced Blend of Sand and Silt
The soil contains 34.8% sand, 37.2% silt, and 23.9% clay. This relatively even distribution supports good workability while maintaining enough clay to hold necessary nutrients. The sand content helps prevent total compaction, allowing roots to penetrate the soil more easily.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
This county boasts an impressive 7.53% organic matter, nearly double the Iowa state average of 3.81%. The available water capacity reaches 0.200 in/in, which is higher than the state mean of 0.195. These figures indicate a highly fertile landscape that retains moisture and nutrients effectively.
High Soil Score Suggests Reliable Stability
Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are unavailable for this region. However, the high soil score of 81.8 suggests that the land is exceptionally well-suited for intensive agricultural production. Farmers should still monitor local fields for ponding given the high organic content and water capacity.
Ready for Hardiness Zone 5a Success
In USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, these high-fertility soils are perfect for growing corn, soybeans, and hearty cool-season vegetables. With organic matter levels far exceeding national averages, your garden will require less supplemental fertilizer than most. Start your beds early to take advantage of this rich, nutrient-dense ground.
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
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Hancock County have?
Hancock County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 37% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hancock County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hancock 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 Hancock County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hancock County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hancock County's soil?
Based on Hancock 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 Hancock County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Hancock County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Hancock County
Soil Verdict
Hancock 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
Hancock County closely matches the Iowa average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hancock 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.