Pine County Soil Data
Pine County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
3.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
29.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pine County, Minnesota
The Acidic Ground of Pine County
Pine County features extremely acidic soil with a pH of 3.89, far lower than the national median of 6.5. This low pH contributes to a soil score of 65.6, which trails the state average. These conditions are unique for the region and require specific management for traditional agriculture.
Silty and Sand-Based Texture
The soil is comprised of 33.0% sand, 30.6% silt, and a very low 7.4% clay. This light texture means the soil lacks the heavy structure found in other parts of the state. It offers decent workability but has limited natural cohesion due to the minimal clay content.
A Reservoir of Organic Material
Despite the high acidity, the soil contains 29.21% organic matter, nearly triple the state average of 9.90%. The available water capacity is also high at 0.266 in/in, well above the state benchmark. This creates a sponge-like soil that holds moisture exceptionally well.
Moisture Retention in Light Soils
Though specific drainage classifications are unavailable, the high organic matter and low clay content suggest a soil that holds water but may lack structural stability. For builders, this means managing high moisture levels in a light, sandy matrix. Farmers must account for the high water capacity when planning irrigation.
The Perfect Home for Acid-Lovers
Located in Zone 4a, Pine County is ideal for acid-loving plants like blueberries and cranberries. The high moisture capacity and low pH create a niche environment that differs from neighboring agricultural counties. Local gardeners should prioritize crops that tolerate acidic conditions and cold winters.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 3.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pine County have?
Pine County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 31% silt, and 7% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pine County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pine County's soil has a low pH of 3.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Pine County?
Pine 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 Pine County's soil?
Based on Pine County's Loam texture, pH of 3.9, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Pine County?
Pine 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: Pine County
Soil Verdict
Pine County is in USDA hardiness zone 4a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -30°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
Pine County closely matches the Minnesota average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pine 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.