Nobles County Soil Data
Nobles County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
5.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Nobles County, Minnesota
Stable Entisols in Nobles County
Nobles County is home to Entisols, characterized by an average pH of 6.80 which is very close to the 6.5 national median. These soils provide a stable, near-neutral foundation for diverse plant life.
Fine-Grained Texture and Structure
The soil contains 43.6% silt and 30.1% sand, offering a fine-grained texture that is excellent for moisture control. A clay content of 26.4% adds significant structural strength and nutrient-holding capacity.
Reliable Reservoirs for Vegetation
Organic matter levels are 5.16%, which is strong by national standards even if lower than the Minnesota average. The soil's available water capacity of 0.189 in/in provides a reliable reservoir for local vegetation throughout the summer.
Well Drained for Ideal Growth
The land is classified as well drained, meaning water moves through the profile at an ideal rate for most agricultural needs. This prevents the soil from becoming waterlogged while ensuring plants have access to consistent hydration.
Robust Planting in Zone 5a
Residents in Hardiness Zone 5a can enjoy success with everything from sunflowers to robust vegetable patches. Your soil is ready for the season, so it is the perfect time to start planting.
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
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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Nobles County have?
Nobles County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 44% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Nobles County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Nobles 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 Nobles County?
Nobles 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 Nobles County's soil?
Based on Nobles County's Loam texture, pH of 6.8, 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 Nobles County?
Nobles 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Nobles County
Soil Verdict
Nobles 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
Nobles County is somewhat warmer than the Minnesota statewide average. The zone range of 4b-5a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Nobles 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.