Aitkin County Soil Data
Aitkin County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
24.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Aitkin County, Minnesota
Highly Acidic Entisols of Aitkin
Aitkin County’s soil consists primarily of Entisols with a very acidic pH of 4.31. This is significantly lower than both the Minnesota state average of 6.21 and the national median of 6.5.
A Sandy and Silty Blend
The soil contains 43.8% sand and 36.2% silt, balanced by a low 7.4% clay content. This mixture creates a coarse texture that provides easy workability but may require careful nutrient management.
Exceptional Organic Richness
Organic matter levels reach a massive 24.02%, more than double the state average of 9.90%. This richness drives a high available water capacity of 0.258 in/in, far exceeding the Minnesota benchmark of 0.199.
Well Drained for Diverse Use
The soil is classified as well-drained, which helps prevent root rot in wet years. While hydrologic group data is limited, the natural drainage makes it suitable for most agricultural and building projects.
Growing in Zone 4a
Hardiness zone 4a is perfect for growing cold-hardy staples like blueberries and potatoes. Use the naturally high organic matter to jumpstart a productive home garden this season.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Aitkin County have?
Aitkin County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 36% silt, and 7% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Aitkin County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Aitkin County's soil has a low pH of 4.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Aitkin County?
Aitkin County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Aitkin County's soil?
Based on Aitkin County's Loam texture, pH of 4.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Aitkin County?
Aitkin County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Aitkin County
Soil Verdict
Aitkin County is in USDA hardiness zone 4a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -30°F. Soils here experience deep freeze cycles that can disrupt structure, kill shallow roots, and slow microbial activity for months each year.
Planting Guidance
Focus on cold-hardy perennials, native grasses, and conifers. The short growing window favors plants with low heat requirements. 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
Deep winter freezing can create soil heaving that pushes shallow-rooted plants out of the ground; add 3-4 inches of organic mulch each fall. Soil drainage is critical — frozen, waterlogged soil kills roots faster than cold alone. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Aitkin County closely matches the Minnesota average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Aitkin County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Minnesota
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.