Fallon County Soil Data
Fallon County, Montana
Avg pH
7.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Fallon County, Montana
Consistent Alkaline Profiles
Fallon County features an average pH of 7.31, which is comfortably close to the Montana state average of 7.43. While more alkaline than the national median of 6.5, it is relatively balanced for the region. This pH level supports a wide variety of prairie grasses and cereal crops.
Sand-Heavy Loamy Mix
The soil is comprised of 39.2% sand, 37.4% silt, and 23.2% clay. This higher sand percentage improves drainage and makes the soil easier to warm up in the spring. It strikes a functional balance between workability and the nutrient-holding capacity of clay.
Above Average Water Capacity
Organic matter levels stand at 2.03%, matching the national average and trailing only slightly behind the state average of 2.54%. The available water capacity of 0.167 in/in is a bright spot, exceeding the Montana average. This helps Fallon County achieve a respectable soil score of 43.9.
Efficient Water Movement
Although specific drainage classes are not listed, the nearly 40% sand content suggests efficient water movement through the soil profile. This reduces the risk of root rot but may require more frequent irrigation during peak summer heat. Farmers should focus on maintaining cover to prevent moisture loss.
Mid-Northern Growing in Zone 4b
Fallon County resides in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b, supporting a reliable range of northern-hardy plants. The soil's great water capacity makes it excellent for drought-resistant varieties and native shrubs. Get outside and plant some sunflowers or flax—they love this well-balanced environment!
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Fallon County have?
Fallon County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 39% sand, 37% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Fallon County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Fallon County's soil has a pH of 7.3, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Fallon County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Fallon County.
What crops or plants grow well in Fallon County's soil?
Based on Fallon County's Loam texture, pH of 7.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Fallon County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Fallon County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Fallon County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Montana
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.