Garfield County Soil Data
Garfield County, Montana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Garfield County, Montana
Alkaline Soils in the Big Open
Garfield County features an average soil pH of 7.53, which is more alkaline than the Montana average of 7.43 and significantly higher than the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic data is limited, this pH level often requires careful management for acid-loving crops.
Silty Texture Defines the Land
The soil composition is a mix of 41.8% silt, 32.8% sand, and 25.4% clay. This high silt content provides a smooth texture that balances water retention with decent workability for agricultural equipment.
Steady Moisture with Moderate Organic Matter
Organic matter sits at 1.67%, falling below the state average of 2.54% and the national benchmark of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity of 0.165 in/in matches the state average, ensuring the soil holds onto critical moisture during dry spells.
Management Challenges in Semi-Arid Ground
While specific drainage classes are not currently mapped, the soil's silty-clay balance suggests moderate water movement. Growers should monitor for surface crusting, a common trait in soils with these specific proportions.
Hardy Crops for Zone 4b
With a 4b hardiness rating, Garfield County is prime territory for spring wheat, barley, and cold-hardy root vegetables. Start your garden today with frost-resistant varieties that can handle the wide temperature swings of the high plains.
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
Alkaline Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 7.5. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Garfield County have?
Garfield County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 42% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Garfield County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Garfield County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Garfield County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Garfield County.
What crops or plants grow well in Garfield County's soil?
Based on Garfield County's Loam texture, pH of 7.5, 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 Garfield County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Garfield County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Garfield County
Soil Verdict
Garfield County is in USDA hardiness zone 4b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -25°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
Garfield County closely matches the Montana average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 4a-4b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Garfield 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.