Freeborn County Soil Data
Freeborn County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
7.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Freeborn County, Minnesota
Premier Neutral Soils in Freeborn
Freeborn County soil hits the national pH median exactly at 6.56. This neutral profile is warmer and more alkaline than the state average of 6.21, creating a highly hospitable environment for diverse biology. It is a gold-standard chemical base for Midwest agriculture.
Perfect Balance of Sand and Clay
The soil consists of 33.3% sand, 41.0% silt, and 23.1% clay. This mix provides enough clay for nutrient storage and enough sand for water movement. It is a versatile texture that supports both large-scale farming and delicate home gardening.
State-Leading Soil Performance
With a Soil Score of 87.8, Freeborn has some of the highest-rated land in Minnesota. The available water capacity is a robust 0.206 in/in, and organic matter stands at a strong 7.13%. These numbers point to a highly resilient soil that can sustain intense production year after year.
Excellent Water Holding and Management
The 23.1% clay content ensures high water retention, which is backed up by an available water capacity above the state average. While specific drainage classes aren't listed, this composition is ideal for resisting drought. It is a reliable foundation for any land-based project.
Maximize Your Harvest in Zone 5a
Zone 5a provides the heat units needed for peppers, melons, and high-yield corn. The elite Soil Score means you have one of the best growing foundations in the entire state. Put these world-class soils to work by starting your own backyard farm this spring.
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 Freeborn County have?
Freeborn County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 41% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Freeborn County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Freeborn County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Freeborn County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Freeborn County.
What crops or plants grow well in Freeborn County's soil?
Based on Freeborn County's Loam texture, pH of 6.6, 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 Freeborn County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Freeborn County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Freeborn County
Soil Verdict
Freeborn 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
Freeborn County is somewhat warmer than the Minnesota statewide average. 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 Freeborn 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.