Rolette County Soil Data
Rolette County, North Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
9.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Rolette County, North Dakota
Rich, Alkaline Soils of the North
Rolette County features a pH of 7.21, which is more alkaline than the 6.5 national median but very close to the state average. This balance is ideal for the hardy northern vegetation found near the Canadian border. The soil chemistry provides a robust foundation for diverse plant species.
Sandy Texture with Minimal Clay
The soil is notably sandy at 42.0%, mixed with 33.6% silt. With a lower clay content of 17.9%, the soil is easy to penetrate and doesn't compact as easily as heavier soils. This makes it a great medium for root crops that need room to expand.
State-Leading Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter is incredible at 9.04%, nearly doubling the state average of 4.69%. Combined with an above-average water capacity of 0.194 in/in, this soil is exceptionally fertile and moisture-resilient. It is some of the most nutrient-dense ground in the region.
Natural Sponge-Like Soil Structure
Formal drainage and hydrologic groups are not listed, but the extremely high organic matter content creates a superior soil structure. This allows the ground to absorb water quickly while holding it for plant use later. It is a very forgiving soil for both farmers and casual gardeners.
Thriving in the 3b Growing Season
A soil score of 71.4 helps offset the shorter growing season of hardiness zone 3b. You can grow impressive yields of cold-tolerant vegetables like kale, potatoes, and cabbage. Start your northern garden now to see what this rich, dark earth can produce.
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 Rolette County have?
Rolette County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 42% sand, 34% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Rolette County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Rolette 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 Rolette County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Rolette County.
What crops or plants grow well in Rolette County's soil?
Based on Rolette 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 Rolette County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Rolette County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Rolette County
Soil Verdict
Rolette County is in USDA hardiness zone 3b, a very cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -35°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
Rolette County is somewhat cooler than the North Dakota statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Rolette 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.