Cottonwood County Soil Data
Cottonwood County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
6.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Cottonwood County, Minnesota
Slightly Alkaline Entisols in Cottonwood
Cottonwood County is characterized by Entisols that feature an average pH of 6.93. This sits slightly higher than the national median of 6.5 and the Minnesota state average of 6.21. These soils offer a neutral to slightly alkaline foundation for local agriculture.
A Balanced Blend of Sand and Silt
The soil composition consists of 36.4% sand, 38.5% silt, and 25.1% clay. This balanced mix provides moderate workability and decent nutrient retention for field crops. The clay content ensures the soil holds together well during the growing season.
High Organic Matter Boosts Potential
With 6.00% organic matter, these soils triple the national average of 2.0%. While the available water capacity of 0.193 in/in is slightly below the state average, the high fertility supports robust crop yields. This combination creates a productive environment for southern Minnesota farming.
Well Drained Land for Steady Growth
The dominant drainage class is categorized as well drained, which prevents most roots from becoming waterlogged. Although specific hydrologic group data is unavailable, the natural drainage supports healthy plant respiration. This makes the land suitable for both traditional farming and residential landscaping.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 5a
Falling within USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, Cottonwood is ideal for corn, soybeans, and hardy perennials. The soil's neutral pH allows for a wide variety of vegetables and flowers to flourish. Grab a trowel and start your garden today in this fertile southern Minnesota soil.
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
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cottonwood County have?
Cottonwood 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 Cottonwood County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cottonwood County's soil has a pH of 6.9, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Cottonwood County?
Cottonwood 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 Cottonwood County's soil?
Based on Cottonwood County's Loam texture, pH of 6.9, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Cottonwood County?
Cottonwood 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: Cottonwood County
Soil Verdict
Cottonwood 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
Cottonwood County is somewhat warmer than the Minnesota statewide average.
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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.