Hill County Soil Data
Hill County, Montana
Avg pH
7.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Hill County, Montana
Balanced Chemistry on the Hi-Line
Hill County boasts a pH of 7.23, which is more neutral than the Montana average of 7.43. While still above the national median of 6.5, this profile is highly favorable for the region's productive agricultural industry.
Sand-Rich Soils Offer Great Workability
The soil is comprised of 40.0% sand, 31.8% silt, and 24.5% clay. This high sand content provides excellent drainage and makes the soil easier to work with than the heavy clay found in neighboring regions.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
With an organic matter content of 4.33%, Hill County far exceeds the state average of 2.54% and the national average of 2.0%. This rich biological foundation earns the county an impressive overall soil score of 55.0.
Efficient Water Management Potential
While dominant drainage classes are not specifically listed, the 40% sand content typically indicates well-drained conditions. This structure helps prevent waterlogging, making it ideal for the county's famous wheat and pulse crop production.
Hardy Growing in Zone 3b
The 3b hardiness zone requires tough, frost-hardy plants like spring wheat, flax, and cold-season vegetables. Leverage your high-quality soil to grow a bumper crop of nutrient-dense greens and roots.
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 Hill County have?
Hill County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 32% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hill County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hill County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Hill County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hill County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hill County's soil?
Based on Hill County's Loam texture, pH of 7.2, 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 Hill County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Hill County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hill 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.