Edmunds County Soil Data
Edmunds County, South Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Edmunds County, South Dakota
Standard Alkaline Plains Profile
Edmunds County has an average pH of 7.11, which is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 7.05. This puts it well above the national median pH of 6.5, influencing which micronutrients are most available to plants. Taxonomic details for the county are currently not documented.
Consistent Silt-Loam Texture
The soil is comprised of 32.6% sand, 44.1% silt, and 23.3% clay. This mixture represents a classic prairie soil that balances drainage with the ability to hold onto water. It provides a stable foundation for both row crops and native grasslands.
High Organic Matter and Capacity
With an organic matter content of 3.93%, Edmunds County outperforms the state average of 3.75%. Its available water capacity of 0.197 in/in is also notably higher than the state average of 0.182 in/in. These metrics indicate a very healthy and productive soil system.
Managing Water in Silty Soil
Though specific hydrologic groups are missing, the high available water capacity suggests the soil manages moisture efficiently. The 44.1% silt content means the soil likely absorbs rain steadily without immediate runoff. Local growers should watch for seasonal saturation in low-lying areas.
Excellent Productivity in Zone 4b
Zone 4b gardeners in Edmunds County benefit from a high soil score of 68.0, which is well above the state average. This fertile ground is perfect for cold-tolerant vegetables and vigorous cereal crops. It is an ideal environment to establish a highly productive home garden.
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 Edmunds County have?
Edmunds County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 44% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Edmunds County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Edmunds 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 Edmunds County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Edmunds County.
What crops or plants grow well in Edmunds County's soil?
Based on Edmunds 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 Edmunds County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Edmunds County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Edmunds County
Soil Verdict
Edmunds County is in USDA hardiness zone 4b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -25°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
Edmunds County closely matches the South Dakota average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Edmunds 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.