Walsh County Soil Data
Walsh County, North Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
4.4%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Walsh County, North Dakota
Young Entisols with High Alkalinity
Walsh County's landscape is dominated by Entisols, which are relatively young soils with an average pH of 7.33. This level is significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and slightly higher than the state average. These soils provide a consistent mineral-rich base for the county's diverse agricultural output.
The Perfect Balance of Loam
The soil is classified as a loam, featuring a balanced mix of 33.9% sand, 41.3% silt, and 24.8% clay. This specific texture is highly prized for its workability and its ability to maintain structure without becoming overly compacted. It offers a versatile medium for everything from large-scale row crops to home gardening.
Reliable Water Storage for High Yields
With 4.39% organic matter, the soil far exceeds the national average of 2.0%, providing a rich reservoir of nutrients. The available water capacity is 0.186 in/in, which perfectly matches the North Dakota state average. This combination of high organic material and water retention supports consistent crop performance even during dry spells.
Well Drained Land for Versatile Use
The soil is categorized as well-drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group C, indicating a moderate rate of water transmission. These characteristics make the land suitable for both intensive farming and residential development without major drainage concerns. It efficiently manages seasonal runoff while keeping the root zone aerated.
Thriving in the Northern Loam
The Zone 4a climate and loamy soil make Walsh County a premier location for growing sugar beets and spring wheat. Root vegetables like carrots and parsnips particularly love the deep, workable loam found here. Grab a shovel and start a vegetable patch to experience the productivity of these Red River Valley soils.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Walsh County have?
Walsh County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 41% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Walsh County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Walsh 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 Walsh County?
Walsh County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Walsh County's soil?
Based on Walsh County's Loam texture, pH of 7.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Walsh County?
Walsh County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Walsh County
Soil Verdict
Walsh 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
Walsh County closely matches the North Dakota average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 3b-4a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
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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.