Roseau County Soil Data
Roseau County, Minnesota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
20.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Roseau County, Minnesota
Acidic and Rich Northern Soils
Roseau County features a soil pH of 6.05, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This level is also slightly below the Minnesota state average of 6.21. Many northern forest plants and specific crops thrive in these slightly sour conditions.
Sandy Texture with High Porosity
The soil contains 45.9% sand, 33.7% silt, and only 11.4% clay. This sandy composition allows for rapid drainage and prevents waterlogging during heavy rains. However, it requires careful nutrient management as water moves through the profile quickly.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
At 20.47%, the organic matter in Roseau is more than double the state average of 9.90%. This extreme richness drives an available water capacity of 0.222 in/in, which is among the highest in the region. This organic abundance offsets the sandy texture to keep plants hydrated.
High-Performing Northern Landscapes
The county boasts an impressive soil score of 86.9, far exceeding the state average of 73.0. While specific drainage classes are not listed, the combination of high sand and high organic matter creates a resilient growing environment. These soils are remarkably productive despite the northern latitude.
Short Seasons in Zone 3b
Roseau sits in the chilly Zone 3b, requiring cold-hardy crops like cabbage, potatoes, and northern berries. The rich soil profile helps plants grow quickly during the short summer window. Start a garden today to see what this high-organic soil can produce.
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
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Roseau County have?
Roseau County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 34% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Roseau County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Roseau 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 Roseau County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Roseau County.
What crops or plants grow well in Roseau County's soil?
Based on Roseau 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 Roseau County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Roseau County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Roseau County
Soil Verdict
Roseau 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
Roseau County is somewhat cooler than the Minnesota statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Roseau 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.