Foster County Soil Data
Foster County, North Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Foster County, North Dakota
High Alkalinity in Central North Dakota
Foster County has a soil pH of 7.26, which is more alkaline than the state average of 7.18 and the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile is typical for the region's glacial till soils. While the specific taxonomic order is not listed, the pH suggests a soil rich in calcium and other minerals.
Sandy Loam Texture Dominates
The soil is comprised of 47.4% sand, 34.5% silt, and 18.1% clay. This high sand percentage makes the soil light and easy to till, offering excellent aeration for plant roots. It is less prone to the heavy compaction seen in the clay-heavy soils of the eastern part of the state.
Solid Organic Matter, Lower Water Capacity
Organic matter content is 4.01%, double the national average but trailing the state average of 4.69%. The available water capacity of 0.179 in/in is below the state average of 0.186, likely due to the higher sand content. This means the soil may require more careful water management during dry periods.
Excellent Drainage and Aeration
The coarse, sandy texture of Foster County’s soil suggests that water drains through the profile quickly. Although specific hydrologic group data is unavailable, this composition is generally good for preventing standing water and mud. It is an ideal soil for crops and plants that do not like 'wet feet'.
Early Starts and Hardy Crops in Zone 4a
In USDA Zone 4a, the sandy nature of Foster County soil is a benefit because it warms up early in the spring. It is perfect for potatoes, carrots, and other root crops that thrive in loose, well-drained earth. To maximize your garden's potential, consider adding compost to help boost that water-holding capacity.
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 Foster County have?
Foster County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 47% sand, 35% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Foster County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Foster County's soil has a pH of 7.3, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Foster County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Foster County.
What crops or plants grow well in Foster County's soil?
Based on Foster County's Loam texture, pH of 7.3, 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 Foster County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Foster County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Foster County
Soil Verdict
Foster 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
Foster County closely matches the North Dakota average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Foster 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.