Sheridan County Soil Data
Sheridan County, Montana
Avg pH
7.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Sheridan County, Montana
High-Quality Ground in the Northeast
Sheridan County stands out with a soil score of 50.7, well above the state average of 43.1. The soil is alkaline with an average pH of 7.44, nearly identical to the state average but much higher than the national median of 6.5. This profile indicates a mineral-rich environment perfect for northern agriculture.
A Silty and Sandy Foundation
The soil is a fairly even split of 36.8% silt and 36.3% sand, rounded out by 25.0% clay. This mix provides excellent workability while the clay content ensures it doesn't dry out too quickly. It is a robust texture that supports both large-scale farming and home gardening.
Superior Organic Matter Levels
This county excels in fertility, with an organic matter content of 3.63%, far exceeding the state average of 2.54% and the national 2.0%. Combined with an Available Water Capacity of 0.167 in/in, these soils are highly productive. The land naturally holds onto both nutrients and the moisture needed to deliver them.
Efficient Water Use for Crops
While a specific drainage class is not listed, the high organic matter and balanced texture suggest efficient water management. The 25% clay content helps prevent the rapid leaching of nutrients. These characteristics make it a resilient landscape for managing the varied precipitation of the plains.
Tough Growing in Zone 3b
Sheridan County is in Hardiness Zone 3b, one of the coldest in the lower 48 states. Despite the harsh winters, the rich soil is perfect for high-protein wheat and cold-weather crops like potatoes and peas. Use frost blankets and cold frames to make the most of the high-quality dirt.
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 Sheridan County have?
Sheridan County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 37% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Sheridan County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Sheridan County's soil has a pH of 7.4, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Sheridan County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Sheridan County.
What crops or plants grow well in Sheridan County's soil?
Based on Sheridan County's Loam texture, pH of 7.4, 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 Sheridan County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Sheridan County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Sheridan 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.