Yellowstone County Soil Data
Yellowstone County, Montana
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Yellowstone County, Montana
Alkaline Earth in the Hub
Yellowstone County has an average pH of 7.49, which is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 7.43. Like much of the region, these soils are far more basic than the national 6.5 median.
Versatile Loamy Composition
The soil contains a balanced mix of 36.0% sand, 37.0% silt, and 26.5% clay. This texture offers a great compromise between drainage speed and nutrient retention for home gardeners and farmers alike.
Stable Productivity Metrics
Organic matter levels reach 2.30%, while the available water capacity is 0.161 in/in. Both numbers are close to state averages, indicating a reliable environment for growing a wide variety of crops.
Reliable Drainage in the Valley
The 26.5% clay content suggests the soil retains moisture well without becoming waterlogged too easily. This makes the county's land suitable for both traditional gardening and more intensive building projects.
Diverse Potential in Zone 5a
As one of Montana's warmer regions in Zone 5a, Yellowstone County supports a long list of plants including tomatoes and peppers. Take advantage of the balanced soil texture to create a thriving backyard oasis.
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 Yellowstone County have?
Yellowstone County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 37% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Yellowstone County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Yellowstone County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Yellowstone County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Yellowstone County.
What crops or plants grow well in Yellowstone County's soil?
Based on Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Yellowstone County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Yellowstone County
Soil Verdict
Yellowstone County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. 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
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Yellowstone County is somewhat warmer than the Montana statewide average. The zone range of 4b-5a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Yellowstone 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.