Red Lake County Soil Data
Red Lake County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
17.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Red Lake County, Minnesota
Red Lake's Elite Agricultural Soil
Red Lake County features one of the highest soil scores in the state at 91.8, far surpassing the Minnesota average of 73.0. The soil is nearly neutral with a pH of 6.63, which is very close to the national median. This makes the county a premier location for diverse biological and agricultural activity.
A Light, Productive Sand-Silt Blend
The soil composition is 47.2% sand, 36.0% silt, and 14.3% clay. This light texture allows for exceptional root penetration and easy tillage for farmers and gardeners. It strikes a great balance between drainage and structural support.
Rich in Organic Matter and Moisture
The county boasts an organic matter content of 17.37%, nearly double the state average of 9.90%. Available water capacity is also superior at 0.210 in/in, providing a significant buffer against dry weather. This high fertility is a cornerstone of the county's agricultural success.
High-Capacity Water Management
The combination of high sand content and high organic matter creates a soil that is both permeable and absorbent. While official drainage classes are not listed, this mix typically handles heavy rains well while keeping moisture accessible to plants. It is a highly resilient soil type for all land uses.
High Yields in a Cold Climate
Sitting in Hardiness Zone 3b, Red Lake requires cold-adapted species, but its 91.8 soil score ensures those plants thrive. It is an ideal spot for high-yield cool-season crops and robust home gardens. Don't let the northern winters fool you; this is some of the best soil in the country.
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 Red Lake County have?
Red Lake County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 47% sand, 36% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Red Lake County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Red Lake County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Red Lake County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Red Lake County.
What crops or plants grow well in Red Lake County's soil?
Based on Red Lake County's Loam texture, pH of 6.6, 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 Red Lake County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Red Lake County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Red Lake County
Soil Verdict
Red Lake 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
Red Lake County is somewhat cooler than the Minnesota statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Red Lake 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.