Jackson County Soil Data
Jackson County, Iowa
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Jackson County, Iowa
Jackson’s Productive Mollisols
Jackson County features a dominant silt loam texture and belongs to the Mollisol order, which is known for its high fertility. Its average pH of 6.44 sits just below the national median of 6.5, providing a nearly neutral environment for most crops.
A Silty, Smooth Texture Profile
The soil contains 56.6% silt, 22.1% sand, and 20.9% clay, creating a smooth and workable texture. This high silt percentage allows for excellent nutrient retention while the clay content provides necessary structure.
Superior Water Storage Capacity
With an available water capacity of 0.205 in/in, the county exceeds the Iowa average of 0.195 in/in. Although its 2.50% organic matter is below the state average of 3.81%, its high soil score of 75.9 reflects strong overall growing potential.
Well-Drained Agricultural Lands
The land is classified as well drained, facilitating reliable agricultural cycles and sturdy building foundations. Being in hydrologic group C, it manages runoff effectively during typical Midwestern rain events.
Hardy Crops for Zone 5a
Falling in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, this soil supports robust corn, soybeans, and hardy perennials. Start your garden today with cold-tolerant vegetables like kale or root crops that thrive in this rich silt loam.
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: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Jackson County have?
Jackson County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 57% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jackson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jackson County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Jackson County?
Jackson 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 Jackson County's soil?
Based on Jackson County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Jackson County?
Jackson 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Jackson County
Soil Verdict
Jackson 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
Jackson County closely matches the Iowa average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jackson 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.