Kossuth County Soil Data

Kossuth County, Iowa

Avg 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

Loam
Sand: 36.9%
Silt: 38.5%
Clay: 23.2%
Loam

Soil pH

6.7pH
6.72835616252557
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently 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.

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.