Kandiyohi County Soil Data
Kandiyohi County, Minnesota
Avg pH
6.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
13.3%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota
High-quality loam leads the state
Kandiyohi County earns a high soil score of 86.8, supported by its dominant Loam texture and Entisols taxonomic order. The average pH of 6.15 sits just below the national median of 6.5, providing a nearly ideal chemical balance for most plants. This slightly acidic profile matches the Minnesota state average of 6.21 almost perfectly.
The golden ratio of sand, silt, and clay
The soil contains a balanced blend of 37.2% sand, 37.6% silt, and 21.3% clay. This loamy mix offers the best of all worlds: easy workability from sand, nutrient retention from silt, and structural strength from clay. It represents one of the most productive agricultural textures in the upper Midwest.
Superior moisture storage and organic matter
With 13.32% organic matter, Kandiyohi significantly outperforms the national average of 2.0%. The soil holds 0.216 inches of water per inch of soil, exceeding the state average of 0.199. This high available water capacity protects crops during the heat of July and August.
Excellent drainage and rapid water movement
Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group A, these soils allow water to infiltrate rapidly. This minimize surface runoff and erosion during heavy Minnesota thunderstorms. Farmers and builders benefit from these stable, dry conditions that simplify land management.
Abundant harvests in zone 4b
The loamy soil and 4b hardiness zone are perfect for growing sweet corn, peppers, and hardy perennials. Because the soil is so well-balanced, it requires fewer amendments than neighboring counties. Your garden will thrive in this fertile ground, making it a great time to plant a diverse backyard orchard.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Kandiyohi County have?
Kandiyohi County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 38% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Kandiyohi County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Kandiyohi County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Kandiyohi County?
Kandiyohi 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 Kandiyohi County's soil?
Based on Kandiyohi County's Loam texture, pH of 6.1, 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 Kandiyohi County?
Kandiyohi 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Kandiyohi 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.