Kossuth County Soil Data
Kossuth County, Iowa
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.7
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
5.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Kossuth County, Iowa
Kossuth's High-pH Northern Soils
Kossuth County stands out with an average pH of 6.73, which is more alkaline than the state average of 6.43 and the national median of 6.5. This unique chemistry makes it an outlier in Iowa, supporting specific nutrient availability.
A Grittier Soil Profile
The soil features a relatively high sand content of 36.9%, balanced with 38.5% silt and 23.2% clay. This creates a profile that is generally easier to drain than the heavy silt loams found in southern Iowa.
Extraordinary Organic Matter
Boasting a massive 5.72% organic matter, Kossuth far exceeds the state average of 3.81%. This exceptionally rich soil provides a natural powerhouse for plant growth, supported by a healthy 0.190 in/in water capacity.
Rich Land for Intensive Farming
Specific drainage and hydrologic group data are not currently available for this county. However, the high soil score of 75.4 suggests the land is top-tier for agricultural production and general land use.
Maximize Your Zone 5a Garden
The rich organic matter in this Zone 5a county is a gardener's dream for growing heavy-feeding vegetables. Plant some brassicas or legumes to take full advantage of the most nutrient-dense soil in the region.
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
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Kossuth County have?
Kossuth County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 38% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Kossuth County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Kossuth 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 Kossuth County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Kossuth County.
What crops or plants grow well in Kossuth County's soil?
Based on Kossuth 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 Kossuth County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Kossuth County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Kossuth County
Soil Verdict
Kossuth 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
Kossuth County closely matches the Iowa average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Kossuth 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.