Blue Earth County Soil Data

Blue Earth County, Minnesota

Avg 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

Loam
Sand: 33.3%
Silt: 40.4%
Clay: 24.1%
Loam

Soil pH

6.5pH
6.50173125638726
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.

Frequently 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.

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.