Blue Earth County Soil Data
Blue Earth County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
7.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Blue Earth County, Minnesota
The Ideal National pH Median
Blue Earth County hits the bullseye with a pH of 6.50, exactly matching the national median. This ideal balance makes it one of the most chemically neutral counties in the entire state.
Heavy Silt and Clay
The soil is composed of 33.3% sand, 40.4% silt, and 24.1% clay. This heavy silt and clay presence creates a dense soil that retains water and nutrients exceptionally well.
High Capacity for Growth
The 7.30% organic matter is robust, while the available water capacity of 0.201 in/in exceeds the state average. This combination provides a great natural buffer against dry spells.
Superior Physical Scores
While specific drainage classes are unavailable, the high soil score of 87.5 reflects superior physical properties. The balance of silt and clay suggests a stable but dense environment for foundations.
Long Seasons in Zone 5a
As part of Zone 5a, you can enjoy a longer growing season for tomatoes, peppers, and fruit trees. Your soil's neutral pH makes it some of the most versatile gardening land in Minnesota.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Blue Earth County have?
Blue Earth County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 40% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Blue Earth County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Blue Earth 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 Blue Earth County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Blue Earth County.
What crops or plants grow well in Blue Earth County's soil?
Based on Blue Earth 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 Blue Earth County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Blue Earth County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Blue Earth County
Soil Verdict
Blue Earth 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
Blue Earth County is somewhat warmer than the Minnesota statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Blue Earth 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.