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Wright County Soil Data

Wright County, Iowa

USDA SSURGO / PHZM

Avg pH

6.5

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

6.1%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Wright County, Iowa

Neutral pH for Optimal Growth

Wright County maintains a balanced pH of 6.53, aligning almost perfectly with the national median of 6.5. This neutral environment allows for optimal nutrient uptake for most common midwestern crops despite the lack of specific taxonomic data.

Stable Mineral Composition

The soil profile contains a mix of 37.9% silt and 35.6% sand, backed by a 24.9% clay component. This combination provides a stable foundation that balances water storage with essential structural support.

Superior Organic Matter Levels

Organic matter levels here reach an impressive 6.11%, nearly doubling the state average of 3.81%. While the available water capacity of 0.191 in/in is just below the state average, the high organic content helps maintain moisture.

Monitoring Soil Hydrology

Specific hydrologic and drainage classifications are not listed in the current data for Wright County. Growers should observe how their specific plots drain after heavy storms to ensure healthy root development and prevent saturation.

A Gardener's Paradise in Zone 5a

The Zone 5a climate and elite organic matter levels make Wright County a gardener's paradise. Whether you are planting field crops or a backyard vegetable patch, these nutrient-dense soils offer a significant head start.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 35.6%
Silt: 37.9%
Clay: 24.9%
Loam

Soil pH

6.5pH
6.53088501773539
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.

Soil Amendment Products

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Wright County have?

Wright County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 38% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Wright County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Wright County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.

What is the drainage class for Wright County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Wright County.

What crops or plants grow well in Wright County's soil?

Based on Wright County's Loam texture, pH of 6.5, 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 Wright County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Wright County is not currently available in our dataset.

Soil & Planting Advisory: Wright County

Soil Verdict

Wright 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

Wright County closely matches the Iowa average hardiness conditions.

Other Counties in Iowa

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

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.