Pipestone County Soil Data
Pipestone County, Minnesota
Avg pH
7.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
4.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pipestone County, Minnesota
Pipestone's Neutral Entisol Soils
Pipestone County soil is slightly alkaline with a pH of 7.02, which is higher than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.21. The dominant taxonomic order is Entisols, representing relatively young soils with undeveloped horizons. It maintains a respectable soil score of 69.0.
Balanced Mix for Nutrient Retention
The soil is a silty blend consisting of 48.0% silt, 26.6% sand, and 25.4% clay. This balanced texture provides the structural strength of clay with the drainage benefits of sand. It offers good workability and is effective at holding onto essential nutrients.
Leaner Soil with Stable Water Storage
Organic matter levels stand at 4.24%, which is lower than the state average of 9.90% but remains double the national average. Available water capacity is measured at 0.194 in/in, aligning closely with the state benchmark of 0.199 in/in. These figures indicate a stable, if not overly rich, growing environment.
Naturally Well-Drained Landscapes
Pipestone's soil is officially classified as well-drained, making it excellent for agriculture and construction. This drainage class prevents the ponding of water and ensures roots stay aerated even after heavy rains. It is a reliable choice for building foundations and diverse farming operations.
Flourishing in Zone 4b
In Zone 4b, Pipestone supports a variety of prairie grasses, corn, and soybeans. The well-drained silty soil is also excellent for home vegetable gardens featuring root crops and hardy perennials. Gardeners are encouraged to add compost to boost the organic matter above its natural 4.24% level.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pipestone County have?
Pipestone County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 48% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pipestone County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pipestone 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 Pipestone County?
Pipestone 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 Pipestone County's soil?
Based on Pipestone County's Loam texture, pH of 7.0, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Pipestone County?
Pipestone 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pipestone 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.