Taylor County Soil Data
Taylor County, Iowa
Avg pH
6.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
3.4%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Taylor County, Iowa
Forest-Derived Alfisols in Taylor
Unlike much of Iowa's prairie soil, Taylor County features Alfisols, which typically form under forest cover. The pH of 6.24 is more acidic than the national average, reflecting this unique local history.
Classic Silt Loam Texture
A composition of 56.0% silt and 28.6% clay makes this a true loam. It is heavy enough to provide a stable anchor for crops while remaining manageable for home gardeners.
Great Water Storage Potential
Taylor County excels in water storage, with a capacity of 0.209 inches per inch compared to the state average of 0.195. Organic matter is 3.38%, providing a solid biological foundation for plant growth.
Managing Poorly Drained Ground
These soils are somewhat poorly drained and fall into hydrologic group D, meaning water moves slowly through the profile. Proper tiling or raised garden beds are often necessary to prevent waterlogging.
Garden Success in Zone 5b
The 5b hardiness zone allows for a diverse range of fruits and vegetables. Given the high water capacity, your garden will likely stay green even when summer rains are sparse.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Somewhat poorly drained
Water is removed slowly enough that the soil is wet at shallow depths for significant periods. Mottling present.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Taylor County have?
Taylor County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 15% sand, 56% silt, and 29% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Taylor County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Taylor County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Taylor County?
Taylor County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Taylor County's soil?
Based on Taylor County's Loam texture, pH of 6.2, and Somewhat poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Taylor County?
Taylor County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Taylor 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.