Lawrence County Soil Data
Lawrence County, South Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
19.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Lawrence County, South Dakota
Exceptional Soil Quality
Lawrence County features an elite soil score of 96.0, one of the highest in the entire state. Its 6.45 pH is nearly identical to the national median of 6.5, providing the perfect acidity for the widest range of plants.
Light and Workable Mix
This soil is uniquely light, with clay making up only 17.1% of the profile. This composition, combined with massive organic content, creates a highly workable soil that resists the compaction seen in other counties.
Unrivaled Organic Richness
The organic matter content is a staggering 19.56%, over five times the South Dakota state average. This richness is paired with an exceptional water capacity of 0.277 in/in, creating an unparalleled environment for plant growth.
Natural Sponge Hydrology
Such high organic matter ensures the soil acts like a sponge, absorbing and releasing water with incredible efficiency. This minimizes runoff and maximizes the effectiveness of every inch of rainfall for local gardeners.
Gardening Gold Mine
In Zone 5a, these world-class soils can support everything from lush flower gardens to productive berry patches. You have some of the best gardening conditions in the country right in your backyard.
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 Lawrence County have?
Lawrence County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 34% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lawrence County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lawrence County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Lawrence County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Lawrence County.
What crops or plants grow well in Lawrence County's soil?
Based on Lawrence County's Loam texture, pH of 6.4, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Lawrence County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Lawrence County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lawrence County
Soil Verdict
Lawrence 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
Lawrence County is somewhat warmer than the South Dakota statewide average. The zone range of 5a-5b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lawrence 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.