Richland County Soil Data
Richland County, Montana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Richland County, Montana
Alkaline Earths on the Eastern Border
Richland County soils average a pH of 7.51, making them more alkaline than both the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 7.43. This high pH reflects the mineral-rich nature of the local landscape. The county earns a soil score of 41.7, which sits just below the Montana average of 43.1.
A Balanced Mix of Silt and Sand
The soil composition here is 41.6% silt, 34.8% sand, and 23.7% clay. This balanced distribution creates a profile that holds moisture reasonably well while remaining easier to work than heavy clay. The significant silt content provides a smooth texture that aids in nutrient retention.
Steady Moisture and Organic Matter
Organic matter content stands at 2.17%, which is higher than the national average of 2.0% but lower than the state’s 2.54%. The Available Water Capacity (AWC) is 0.168 in/in, slightly exceeding the Montana average of 0.165 in/in. This means the soil is well-equipped to store water for crops during dry spells.
Understanding Local Water Movement
While specific drainage classes are unrecorded, the 23.7% clay content suggests moderate drainage speeds. The soil's ability to hold water (AWC of 0.168) is a key asset for dryland farming in the region. Proper management is necessary to prevent salt buildup in these alkaline conditions.
Resilient Growing in Zone 4a
Richland County sits in Hardiness Zone 4a, where gardeners must plan for sub-zero winters. Hardier crops like wheat, sugar beets, and cold-tolerant vegetables thrive in these silty soils. Start seeds indoors to get a jump on the relatively short northern growing season.
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 Richland County have?
Richland County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 42% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Richland County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Richland 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 Richland County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Richland County.
What crops or plants grow well in Richland County's soil?
Based on Richland 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 Richland County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Richland County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Richland County
Soil Verdict
Richland County is in USDA hardiness zone 4a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -30°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
Richland County closely matches the Montana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Richland 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.