Sheridan County Soil Data
Sheridan County, Montana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Sheridan County
Soil Verdict
Sheridan County is in USDA hardiness zone 3b, a very cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -35°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
Sheridan County is somewhat cooler than the Montana statewide average. The zone range of 3b-4a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
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.