Lyman County Soil Data
Lyman County, South Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.2
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Lyman County, South Dakota
Alkaline Soils of the Semi-Arid Plains
Lyman County features alkaline soil with a pH of 7.21, which is higher than the national median of 6.5. This reflects the region's semi-arid nature and contributes to a modest soil score of 46.0.
Dense Clay and Silt Mix
The soil contains 34.6% clay and 45.7% silt, resulting in a dense mixture that can be difficult to work when wet. This composition provides a very strong foundation for the native grasses that define the local landscape.
Resilient Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter sits at 2.60%, exceeding the national average of 2.0% but falling behind the state's 3.75% benchmark. A lower available water capacity of 0.152 in/in means plants may need extra care during dry spells.
Slow Filtration in Clay-Rich Ground
With a high clay percentage, the soil naturally filters water more slowly than sandier regions. Builders and farmers should plan for potential water retention in low-lying areas following heavy South Dakota rainstorms.
Hardy Crops for Zone 5a
Lyman County thrives with drought-resistant crops like winter wheat and resilient forage grasses. While the soil score is lower than neighbors, careful moisture management allows dedicated gardeners to cultivate successful vegetable beds.
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lyman County have?
Lyman County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 46% silt, and 35% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lyman County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lyman County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Lyman County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Lyman County.
What crops or plants grow well in Lyman County's soil?
Based on Lyman County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 7.2, 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 Lyman County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Lyman County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lyman County
Soil Verdict
Lyman 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
Lyman County is somewhat warmer than the South Dakota statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lyman 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.