Stearns County Soil Data
Stearns County, Minnesota
Avg pH
5.9
Texture
Loamy sand
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
10.9%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Stearns County, Minnesota
Acidic Entisols Lead the Landscape
Stearns County features a dominant soil texture of loamy sand and belongs to the Entisol taxonomic order. With an average pH of 5.86, these soils are notably more acidic than both the national median of 6.5 and the Minnesota average of 6.21.
A Sandy Mix for Rapid Drainage
The soil profile consists of 50.4% sand, 31.3% silt, and 14.2% clay. This high sand concentration ensures easy workability but requires careful management to prevent nutrients from leaching away too quickly.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
The county boasts an organic matter content of 10.89%, which exceeds the state average of 9.90% and dwarfs the national average of 2.0%. This richness offsets its slightly below-average water capacity of 0.196 in/in, providing a strong foundation for plant growth.
Excellent Drainage for Fast-Drying Fields
Classified as excessively drained and falling into hydrologic group A, these soils move water rapidly. This makes Stearns County excellent for building and early spring planting, as the ground warms and dries out quickly.
Hardy Options for Zone 4b
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b, these sandy soils are perfect for root vegetables like carrots or acid-loving berries. With a soil score of 74.8, your garden has a better-than-average start for the Minnesota growing season.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loamy sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Stearns County have?
Stearns County's soil is classified as Loamy sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 50% sand, 31% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Stearns County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Stearns County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Stearns County?
Stearns County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Stearns County's soil?
Based on Stearns County's Loamy sand texture, pH of 5.9, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Stearns County?
Stearns 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 Stearns 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.