Pennington County Soil Data
Pennington County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
22.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pennington County, Minnesota
Pennington's High-Quality Acidic Soil
Pennington County boasts an impressive soil score of 87.2, significantly higher than the Minnesota average of 73.0. The soil is slightly acidic with a pH of 6.04, placing it just below the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic orders are not categorized, the overall quality suggests a highly productive environment.
A Light and Workable Sand-Heavy Mix
The soil composition is 46.1% sand, 37.1% silt, and 12.1% clay. This high sand content ensures the ground is easy to work and provides excellent aeration for root systems. The lower clay percentage prevents the soil from becoming overly heavy or compacted during wet seasons.
Exceptional Organic Matter and Water Storage
Organic matter in Pennington is a massive 22.84%, more than double the state average of 9.90%. This richness is paired with an available water capacity of 0.224 in/in, which beats the state benchmark of 0.199 in/in. These factors create a powerhouse for plant growth and nutrient retention.
Efficient Water Management Potential
While official drainage classes are not listed, the 46.1% sand content typically indicates rapid water movement through the profile. This characteristic helps prevent standing water and root rot in a region known for varying precipitation. Builders and farmers should expect well-aerated ground that responds quickly to drainage improvements.
Hardy Crops for the Far North
Pennington County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 3b, requiring plants that can withstand deep freezes. Short-season vegetables like potatoes and cold-hardy grains thrive in this nutrient-dense soil. Gardeners should take advantage of the high organic matter to grow vigorous, cold-tolerant perennials.
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
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pennington County have?
Pennington County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 37% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pennington County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pennington County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Pennington County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pennington County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pennington County's soil?
Based on Pennington County's Loam texture, pH of 6.0, 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 Pennington County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pennington County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pennington County
Soil Verdict
Pennington County is in USDA hardiness zone 3b, a very cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -35°F. Soils here experience deep freeze cycles that can disrupt structure, kill shallow roots, and slow microbial activity for months each year.
Planting Guidance
Focus on cold-hardy perennials, native grasses, and conifers. The short growing window favors plants with low heat requirements. 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
Deep winter freezing can create soil heaving that pushes shallow-rooted plants out of the ground; add 3-4 inches of organic mulch each fall. Soil drainage is critical — frozen, waterlogged soil kills roots faster than cold alone. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Pennington County is somewhat cooler than the Minnesota statewide average. The zone range of 3b-4a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pennington 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.