Bon Homme County Soil Data
Bon Homme County, South Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Bon Homme County, South Dakota
Typical Alkaline Prairie Soils
Bon Homme County has a pH of 7.09, which is nearly identical to the South Dakota average of 7.05 and higher than the 6.5 national median. The soil score of 65.2 indicates the land is more productive than the average South Dakota county. This alkaline profile is well-suited for the region's dominant corn and soybean rotations.
Silt-Heavy for Fine Texture
The soil is nearly half silt at 49.1%, with 26.9% sand and 24.0% clay. This silty texture provides a smooth, flour-like feel that is excellent for retaining moisture and minerals. It offers a stable medium for root development without being as difficult to till as heavy clay.
Robust Moisture Retention Levels
Organic matter stands at 3.44%, which is slightly under the state average of 3.75% but well above the national 2.0%. The available water capacity is a strong 0.193 in/in, outperforming the state average of 0.182. This means the soil acts like a sponge, keeping plants fed during dry periods.
Balanced Hydrology for Agriculture
Specific drainage classes are not listed, but the high silt and moderate clay percentages suggest the soil holds water effectively. This is beneficial for consistent crop growth but can lead to slow drainage in low-lying areas. It is important to monitor soil moisture during the spring planting season.
Reliable Harvests in Zone 5a
The Zone 5a climate is perfect for warm-season vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and squash. Your soil's high water capacity of 0.193 in/in makes it a forgiving environment for weekend gardeners. Start a compost pile to boost your organic matter closer to the state average for even better results.
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 Bon Homme County have?
Bon Homme County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 49% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Bon Homme County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Bon Homme County's soil has a pH of 7.1, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Bon Homme County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Bon Homme County.
What crops or plants grow well in Bon Homme County's soil?
Based on Bon Homme County's Loam texture, pH of 7.1, 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 Bon Homme County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Bon Homme County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Bon Homme County
Soil Verdict
Bon Homme County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. 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
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Bon Homme County is somewhat warmer than the South Dakota statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bon Homme County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in South 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.