Adams County Soil Data
Adams County, North Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Adams County, North Dakota
Slightly Alkaline Soils of the Southwest
Adams County features an average pH of 6.96, which is more acidic than the North Dakota state average of 7.18. This level remains higher than the 6.5 national median, providing a slightly alkaline foundation for local land use. While specific taxonomic data is unavailable, the chemical profile suggests a stable mineral environment.
A Balanced Sand and Silt Blend
The soil composition consists of 41.7% sand, 36.3% silt, and 22.1% clay. This distribution creates a workable texture that balances aeration with necessary structural body. It allows for decent root penetration while maintaining enough clay for nutrient storage.
Steady Moisture for Arid Plains
Organic matter stands at 3.69%, significantly beating the 2.0% national average but trailing the 4.69% state mark. The available water capacity is 0.183 in/in, which is very close to the state average of 0.186. This helps plants survive the dry spells typical of the western plains.
Natural Drainage and Soil Permeability
Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are not available for this area. However, the 41.7% sand content suggests the soil likely moves water more efficiently than heavy clay regions. This prevents excessive waterlogging during the spring thaw.
Hardy Growing in Zone 4b
With a USDA Hardiness Zone of 4b, your garden can support robust grains and cool-season vegetables. The overall soil score of 63.2 perfectly matches the state average, indicating reliable productivity for any new gardener. Consider starting with flax or hardy wheat varieties to take advantage of this soil.
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 Adams County have?
Adams County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 42% sand, 36% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Adams County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Adams County's soil has a pH of 7.0, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Adams County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Adams County.
What crops or plants grow well in Adams County's soil?
Based on Adams County's Loam texture, pH of 7.0, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Adams County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Adams County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Adams County
Soil Verdict
Adams County is in USDA hardiness zone 4b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -25°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
Adams County closely matches the North Dakota average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Adams County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in North Dakota
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.