Dickey County Soil Data

Dickey County, North Dakota

Avg pH

7.2

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

4.1%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Dickey County, North Dakota

Consistent Alkaline Soil Chemistry

Dickey County soil registers an average pH of 7.23, staying consistent with the state's typical alkaline profile of 7.18. This is higher than the national median of 6.5, reflecting the mineral-rich glacial till heritage of the region. This pH level is conducive to many regional crops that have adapted to slightly basic environments.

Sandy Texture with Quick Drainage

With 44.1% sand and 35.5% silt, Dickey County has a coarser soil texture than many of its northern neighbors. This higher sand content, paired with 20.4% clay, suggests easier tilling and faster warming in the spring. However, it may require more frequent monitoring of moisture levels during peak summer heat.

Solid Fertility with Moderate Moisture

Organic matter sits at 4.06%, which is double the national average but slightly behind the state average of 4.69%. The available water capacity of 0.183 in/in is just under the state benchmark of 0.186. While not the richest in the state, the soil provides a dependable foundation for standard regional agriculture.

Fast-Moving Water and Aeration

The relatively high sand content implies that water moves through the profile more quickly than in heavier clay soils. Though specific hydrologic groups are not recorded, this composition typically offers better aeration for root systems. This makes the land less prone to waterlogging after spring snowmelt.

Southern Tier Warmth in Zone 4b

Dickey County is in Zone 4b, offering a slightly longer growing window than northern North Dakota. The sandy-leaning soil is perfect for warm-season vegetables and corn that benefit from soils that heat up quickly. It is an excellent spot to start a productive home garden with consistent watering.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 44.1%
Silt: 35.5%
Clay: 20.4%
Loam

Soil pH

7.2pH
7.22724142552612
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Dickey County have?

Dickey County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 36% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Dickey County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Dickey County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.

What is the drainage class for Dickey County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Dickey County.

What crops or plants grow well in Dickey County's soil?

Based on Dickey County's Loam texture, pH of 7.2, 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 Dickey County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Dickey County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.