Page County Soil Data
Page County, Iowa
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Page County, Iowa
Slightly Acidic Soils of the South
Page County soils feature an average pH of 6.27, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. While local taxonomic data is limited, these levels are slightly below the Iowa state average of 6.43.
A Silty Foundation for Farming
The soil contains a heavy silt concentration of 53.9% combined with 28.6% clay. This mixture creates a dense earth that holds onto nutrients well but requires careful management to avoid compaction.
Moisture Retention Above the State Average
Organic matter stands at 3.42%, exceeding the national average of 2.0% but trailing the state average of 3.81%. The available water capacity of 0.204 in/in is higher than the state average, providing a reliable reservoir for crops.
Managing Water in Silty Clay
Though specific drainage classes are not listed, the high silt and clay content suggests slow permeability. Farmers and builders should account for significant water retention during wet Iowa seasons.
Garden Success in Zone 5b
This county falls in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, which is ideal for tomatoes, peppers, and sweet corn. Grab a shovel and start your garden today in this moisture-rich soil!
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Page County have?
Page County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 54% silt, and 29% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Page County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Page 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 Page County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Page County.
What crops or plants grow well in Page County's soil?
Based on Page County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Page County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Page County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Page County
Soil Verdict
Page County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°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. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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
Page County closely matches the Iowa average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Page 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.