Dodge County Soil Data
Dodge County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Dodge County, Minnesota
Ideal pH Levels for Agriculture
Dodge County soils feature an average pH of 6.44, sitting right at the national sweet spot of 6.5. This makes the soil naturally suited for most crops without the need for heavy chemical adjustments. It is significantly more balanced than the broader state average of 6.21.
Silt-Heavy Soils for Nutrient Retention
The soil composition is 19.9% sand, 58.0% silt, and 20.6% clay. This high silt content creates a smooth, flour-like texture that is excellent at holding nutrients. These silty soils are among the most productive in the state for grain production.
High Soil Score and Water Capacity
With a Soil Score of 85.6, Dodge County ranks well above the state average of 73.0. Its available water capacity of 0.211 in/in exceeds the state average, ensuring crops have access to moisture during dry spells. Organic matter stands at a healthy 4.64%, more than double the national average.
Steady Hydrology for Farm Productivity
The dominance of silt and clay suggests that water moves slowly and stays where plants can reach it. While specific drainage classes aren't provided, this mix is typical of high-performing prairie soils. Farmers here rely on this consistent moisture to drive some of the best yields in the Midwest.
A Gardener's Dream in Zone 4b
Hardiness Zone 4b supports a wide array of cool-season vegetables and hearty grains. The high Soil Score means your garden starts with a significant natural advantage. Whether you are planting a small vegetable patch or a large field, these soils are ready to produce.
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: Silt 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 Dodge County have?
Dodge County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 58% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Dodge County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Dodge County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Dodge County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Dodge County.
What crops or plants grow well in Dodge County's soil?
Based on Dodge County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Dodge County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Dodge County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Dodge County
Soil Verdict
Dodge County is in USDA hardiness zone 4b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -25°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
Dodge County closely matches the Minnesota average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 4b-5a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Dodge 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.