Jackson County Soil Data
Jackson County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
6.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Jackson County, Minnesota
Rich, Slightly Alkaline Southern Soil
Jackson County features a pH of 6.82, making it slightly more alkaline than both the national median and the state average. With a high soil score of 75.2, this land is among the most productive in the region.
Heavier Soil with Significant Clay
The soil here has a relatively high clay content of 25.6%, which provides excellent structural support for plants. Balanced with 33.9% sand and 38.1% silt, it is a robust mixture that holds onto nutrients very well.
Excellent Fertility for Field Crops
Organic matter is strong at 6.56%, triple the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.192 in/in is nearly on par with the state average, providing a reliable water source for deep-rooted crops.
Solid Moisture Retention and Structure
The 25.6% clay content means this soil drains more slowly than sandier northern counties. This slow drainage keeps the soil hydrated and prevents the essential nutrients from washing away during heavy Minnesota storms.
Bountiful Harvests in Zone 5a
Jackson County's Zone 5a climate is ideal for high-yield soy, corn, and large vegetable gardens. Take advantage of the nutrient-dense clay and start a vegetable patch that will thrive in this southern sun.
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 Jackson County have?
Jackson County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 38% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jackson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jackson County's soil has a pH of 6.8, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Jackson County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Jackson County.
What crops or plants grow well in Jackson County's soil?
Based on Jackson County's Loam texture, pH of 6.8, 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 Jackson County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Jackson County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Jackson County
Soil Verdict
Jackson 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
Jackson County is somewhat warmer than the Minnesota statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jackson 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.