Murray County Soil Data
Murray County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Murray County, Minnesota
Alkaline Foundations in Murray County
Murray County's soil leans slightly alkaline with an average pH of 7.02, which is higher than the national 6.5 median. This taxonomic profile provides a unique chemical base for local agriculture and landscaping.
Tillage-Friendly Silt and Clay
The soil composition is 40.8% silt and 33.9% sand, creating a silty mix that is relatively easy to till. With 25.3% clay, the soil has enough body to prevent nutrients from washing away during heavy rains.
Productive Carbon and Water Levels
Organic matter stands at 4.53%, which is about half of the state average but remains high compared to national standards. An available water capacity of 0.188 in/in indicates the soil stores slightly less water than the state average of 0.199.
Moderate Water Retention Needs Monitoring
Although formal drainage data is unavailable, the high clay content often leads to slower percolation. Farmers and builders should account for this moderate water retention when planning land use and irrigation.
Summer Success in Zone 5a
Positioned in Hardiness Zone 5a, Murray is warm enough for heat-loving crops like sweet corn and peppers. Grab some seeds and get started, as this soil is primed for a successful growing season.
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 Murray County have?
Murray County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 41% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Murray County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Murray County's soil has a pH of 7.0, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Murray County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Murray County.
What crops or plants grow well in Murray County's soil?
Based on Murray County's Loam texture, pH of 7.0, 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 Murray County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Murray County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Murray County
Soil Verdict
Murray 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
Murray County is somewhat warmer than the Minnesota statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Murray 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.