Toole County Soil Data
Toole County, Montana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Toole County, Montana
Rich Organic Matter in Toole
Toole County features an average pH of 7.37, which is slightly more acidic than the state average but still above the national median of 6.5. This pH level supports a wide range of nutrient availability for local agriculture.
A Balanced Mix for Reliable Crops
The soil contains 36.8% sand, 35.2% silt, and 26.0% clay. This relatively even distribution provides a stable structure that resists compaction while maintaining enough clay for essential nutrient storage.
Outperforming the State Average
With an impressive 3.31% organic matter, Toole far exceeds the state average of 2.54%. Its available water capacity of 0.159 in/in is just below the state norm, requiring careful moisture management during dry spells.
Sturdy Ground for High Plains Farming
While specific drainage classes are not listed, the 26.0% clay content suggests moderate drainage speeds. Farmers should monitor for surface crusting, which can occasionally occur in soils with this specific mineral balance.
Tough Plants for Zone 4a
Zone 4a features a short growing season that benefits from the county's high organic matter. Focus on hardy grains or fast-growing vegetables like radishes and spinach to thrive in these rich northern soils.
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 Toole County have?
Toole County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 35% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Toole County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Toole 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 Toole County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Toole County.
What crops or plants grow well in Toole County's soil?
Based on Toole 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 Toole County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Toole County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Toole County
Soil Verdict
Toole 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
Toole County closely matches the Montana average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Toole 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.