Ida County Soil Data
Ida County, Iowa
Avg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.1%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Ida County, Iowa
Silty Mollisols of Ida County
Ida County is dominated by Mollisols with an average pH of 6.31, sitting slightly below the national median of 6.5. This pH is quite similar to the Iowa state average of 6.43. The dominant silty clay loam texture provides a heavy, nutrient-rich base for the region.
High Silt and Clay Content
This soil is composed of 58.9% silt and 28.1% clay, with very little sand at 13.1%. This creates a dense, fine-textured soil that can hold a significant amount of nutrients. However, the low sand content means the soil can become heavy and slow to dry after rain.
Superior Water Retention Capabilities
With an available water capacity of 0.212 in/in, Ida County far exceeds the state average of 0.195. Although organic matter is 3.15%, which is slightly below the Iowa average, the high water capacity protects crops during droughts. This soil acts like a sponge for your garden's needs.
Well Drained but Slow Infiltration
The soil is classified as well drained but falls into Hydrologic Group C. This indicates that while the soil eventually dries out, it has a slower rate of water transmission when thoroughly wet. Farmers and gardeners should manage the surface carefully to avoid erosion on slopes.
Lush Growth in Zone 5a
Hardiness Zone 5a is perfect for growing diverse prairie grasses and high-yield grains in this silty clay loam. These soils are excellent for moisture-loving plants and can support a productive vegetable patch with minimal irrigation. Dig into this rich earth to see why Ida County earns a high soil score of 78.3.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Ida County have?
Ida County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 13% sand, 59% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ida County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ida 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 Ida County?
Ida County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Ida County's soil?
Based on Ida County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Ida County?
Ida County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ida 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.