Minnehaha County Soil Data
Minnehaha County, South Dakota
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Minnehaha County, South Dakota
Balanced Soil in the Heart of Minnehaha
Minnehaha County features a neutral soil profile with an average pH of 6.87. This is slightly more acidic than the South Dakota average of 7.05 but remains above the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic data is unavailable, the soil acidity is nearly ideal for a wide range of regional crops.
A Silty Foundation for Eastern Fields
The soil is a heavy mix of 46.5% silt and 26.3% clay, balanced by 25.1% sand. This composition creates a dense structure that holds shape well and resists rapid erosion. Farmers here benefit from a mix that retains nutrients effectively despite a lack of high sand content.
Strong Water Capacity Boosts Growth
With an available water capacity of 0.193 in/in, these soils outperform the state average of 0.182. Organic matter stands at a healthy 3.59%, significantly higher than the 2.0% national average. This high fertility helps explain the county's impressive soil score of 69.1.
Managing Water in the Loess Hills
Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unlisted for the county as a whole. However, the high silt and clay content suggests the land naturally retains moisture for longer periods than sandier neighbors. Local builders should test specific sites for runoff potential before starting new projects.
Abundant Gardening in Zone 5a
Minnehaha County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, offering a slightly longer growing season than northern peers. The nutrient-dense soil is perfect for sweet corn, tomatoes, and hardy perennials. Gardeners can take advantage of the high water capacity to sustain lush backyard vegetable patches.
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 Minnehaha County have?
Minnehaha County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 25% sand, 47% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Minnehaha County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Minnehaha County's soil has a pH of 6.9, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Minnehaha County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Minnehaha County.
What crops or plants grow well in Minnehaha County's soil?
Based on Minnehaha County's Loam texture, pH of 6.9, 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 Minnehaha County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Minnehaha County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Minnehaha County
Soil Verdict
Minnehaha 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
Minnehaha County is somewhat warmer than the South Dakota statewide average. The zone range of 4b-5a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
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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.