Ramsey County Soil Data
Ramsey County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
6.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Ramsey County, Minnesota
Acidic and Sandy Urban Soils
Ramsey County's soil score of 63.8 reflects its more challenging urban and sandy profile. The soil is acidic with a pH of 5.77, which is lower than both the national median and the state average of 6.21. These conditions often require amendments like lime for traditional gardening.
Dominated by Sand and Silt
The ground here is majority sand at 51.0%, paired with 38.4% silt and only 10.6% clay. This sand-heavy mix means the soil is very loose and drains extremely quickly. However, the low clay content means the soil may struggle to hold onto nutrients over time.
Modest Organic Matter and Water Holding
Organic matter sits at 6.71%, which is below the state average of 9.90%. The available water capacity is also lower than the state benchmark at 0.180 in/in. Gardeners in this area will need to focus on adding organic amendments to improve moisture retention.
Fast-Draining Ground for Urban Living
With over half the soil composed of sand, water moves through Ramsey County's ground very quickly. While this prevents puddling, it can lead to dry conditions for lawns and gardens during heatwaves. This fast drainage is generally a plus for construction and urban infrastructure.
Warmer Opportunities in Zone 5a
Ramsey County enjoys a slightly warmer climate in Zone 5a, allowing for a longer list of plant varieties. The acidic, sandy soil is great for pines and azaleas, but vegetable gardeners should use raised beds and compost. With a little extra water and care, your urban garden can flourish.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ramsey County have?
Ramsey County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 51% sand, 38% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ramsey County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ramsey County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Ramsey County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Ramsey County.
What crops or plants grow well in Ramsey County's soil?
Based on Ramsey County's Loam texture, pH of 5.8, 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 Ramsey County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Ramsey County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Ramsey County
Soil Verdict
Ramsey 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
Ramsey County is somewhat warmer than the Minnesota statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ramsey 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.