Lyon County Soil Data
Lyon County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Lyon County, Minnesota
Sweet Soils of the Southwestern Plains
Lyon County possesses a pH of 7.23, which is significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This 'sweet' soil profile stands in contrast to the more acidic state average of 6.21. It creates a unique chemical environment for plant nutrient uptake across the county.
A Silty-Clay Foundation
The soil composition consists of 35.4% sand, 39.4% silt, and 25.2% clay. This blend provides sufficient clay for nutrient retention while the sand ensures the soil remains workable. It is a versatile mix that supports both heavy agriculture and diverse garden plots.
Reliable Water Holding Potential
Organic matter levels sit at 4.75%, more than doubling the national average of 2.0%. While this is below the high Minnesota state average of 9.90%, the available water capacity of 0.187 in/in remains close to the state's 0.199 benchmark. These figures suggest a soil that handles dry spells with reasonable resilience.
Consistent Agricultural Performance
Lyon County's soil score of 63.2 indicates steady agricultural potential despite lacking specific drainage classification data. The physical texture suggests that water moves through the profile at a moderate rate. This makes it a dependable landscape for the region's dominant farming practices.
Flourishing in Zone 5a
The county falls into Hardiness Zone 5a, offering a slightly longer growing season than its northern neighbors. Alfalfa thrives here due to the higher pH levels, alongside standard row crops and hardy perennials. Gardeners find success with brassicas and legumes that appreciate the mineral-rich, alkaline 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
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 Lyon County have?
Lyon County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 39% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lyon County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lyon County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Lyon County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Lyon County.
What crops or plants grow well in Lyon County's soil?
Based on Lyon County's Loam texture, pH of 7.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Lyon County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Lyon County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lyon County
Soil Verdict
Lyon 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
Lyon County is somewhat warmer than the Minnesota statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lyon 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.