Mellette County Soil Data
Mellette County, South Dakota
Avg pH
7.3
Texture
Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Mellette County, South Dakota
Highly Alkaline Mellette Soils
Mellette County soil is more alkaline than most, with a pH of 7.34 compared to the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile, along with lower water capacity, results in a soil score of 42.4.
Heavy Clay and Silt Profile
The soil profile is heavy on clay at 31.8% and silt at 41.6%, with sand making up only 25.6%. This high clay content can lead to soil compaction and slower water infiltration if not managed carefully.
Moisture Conservation is Key
Organic matter is relatively low at 2.37%, which is below the state average of 3.75%. The available water capacity of 0.154 in/in is also lower than the state benchmark, suggesting a need for consistent moisture management.
Managing Water in Clay Soil
The 31.8% clay composition typically indicates a soil that holds onto water for longer periods. This can be a challenge for gardening, though it provides stability for certain types of infrastructure and building.
Adapting to Zone 5a Conditions
Growers in Mellette County should focus on plants that tolerate alkaline conditions and heavy clay. Adding organic amendments like compost can help improve the soil score and make your backyard garden more productive.
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: Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Mellette County have?
Mellette County's soil is classified as Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 42% silt, and 32% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Mellette County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Mellette County's soil has a pH of 7.3, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Mellette County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Mellette County.
What crops or plants grow well in Mellette County's soil?
Based on Mellette County's Clay Loam texture, pH of 7.3, 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 Mellette County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Mellette County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Mellette 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.