Davison County Soil Data
Davison County, South Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.1
Texture
Gravelly loam
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
3.4%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Davison County, South Dakota
Alkaline Entisols Define Davison Soil
Davison County's soil features a pH of 7.14, which is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and slightly higher than the state average. These soils belong to the Entisols order and typically present as gravelly loam. This identity signals a relatively young soil profile with distinct mineral characteristics.
A Versatile Loam Mixture
The soil composition consists of 31.8% sand, 45.4% silt, and 22.8% clay. This balanced mix creates a gravelly loam texture that provides decent structure for various agricultural uses. The high silt content helps with workability while the clay fraction maintains necessary mineral bonds.
Strong Water Retention Capabilities
With an organic matter content of 3.35%, Davison exceeds the national average of 2.0% but trails the South Dakota state average. Its available water capacity of 0.195 in/in is higher than the state average of 0.182 in/in. This suggests the soil is excellent at holding onto moisture for crops during dry spells.
High Permeability and Rapid Drainage
Classified as excessively drained and belonging to hydrologic group A, this soil allows water to move through very quickly. While this prevents ponding, it means nutrients may leach away faster than in heavier soils. Builders find these conditions favorable for stable foundations and effective septic drainage.
Hardy Gardening in Zone 5a
Davison County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, where the soil score of 64.8 beats the state average of 61.2. Root vegetables and prairie-hardy perennials thrive in this gravelly loam when supported by consistent watering. It is a great environment to start a resilient home garden or small orchard.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Gravelly 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 Davison County have?
Davison County's soil is classified as Gravelly loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 45% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Davison County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Davison 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 Davison County?
Davison County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Davison County's soil?
Based on Davison County's Gravelly loam texture, pH of 7.1, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Davison County?
Davison 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: Davison County
Soil Verdict
Davison 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
Davison County is somewhat warmer than the South Dakota statewide average.
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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.