Martin County Soil Data
Martin County, Minnesota
Avg pH
6.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
7.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Martin County, Minnesota
Neutral and Balanced Profiles
Martin County's soil pH of 6.75 sits just above the national median of 6.5 and higher than the Minnesota average of 6.21. This near-neutrality is highly favorable for most row crops and garden vegetables. It supports a diverse range of plant life without requiring heavy lime applications.
A Classic Loam Mix
With 33.2% sand, 40.6% silt, and 23.8% clay, the soil offers a well-rounded texture. The high silt and clay components provide excellent nutrient-holding capacity and structural stability. This mix is a primary reason for the county's strong agricultural reputation.
Above-Average Growing Potential
Organic matter levels reach 7.21%, which is lower than the state's 9.90% but over triple the national average. The available water capacity is 0.202 in/in, beating the state average of 0.199. This allows the soil to act as a reliable reservoir for plants during the heat of summer.
High-Quality Land Score
A soil score of 81.2 reflects the county's superior land quality for farming and construction. While specific drainage classes aren't detailed, the texture suggests moderate permeability and good retention. These soils are foundational to the county's high-yield corn and soybean production.
Warmth and Wealth in Zone 5a
In Hardiness Zone 5a, Martin County enjoys one of the more favorable climates in the state for heat-loving crops. The balanced soil is perfect for large-scale agriculture and thriving home orchards. It is an ideal environment for starting a productive backyard garden or commercial farm.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Martin County have?
Martin County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 41% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Martin County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Martin 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 Martin County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Martin County.
What crops or plants grow well in Martin County's soil?
Based on Martin 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 Martin County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Martin County is not currently available in our dataset.
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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.