Ashland County Soil Data
Ashland County, Wisconsin
Avg pH
4.7
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
28.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Ashland County, Wisconsin
Ashland’s Highly Acidic Northern Soil
Ashland County features a very acidic pH of 4.70, falling significantly below both the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 5.63. This chemical profile suggests a landscape shaped by pine forests and cool northern temperatures.
Fine Texture and Low Clay
The soil contains 37.2% sand and 28.2% silt, but only 6.6% clay. This lack of clay can make the soil less stable, though the high silt and sand blend often aids in initial drainage.
Extraordinary Organic Wealth
With an incredible 28.86% organic matter, these soils far exceed the state average of 11.02%. The available water capacity of 0.284 in/in is also much higher than the state average of 0.204, creating a massive moisture reservoir for plants.
High Moisture Retention Challenges
The limited hydrologic data is balanced by the extremely high water capacity of the soil itself. This suggests a soil that stays damp, which is excellent for moisture-loving plants but may require raised beds for certain crops.
Cool-Climate Growing in Zone 4a
Zone 4a is one of the coldest in the state, making it ideal for northern berries and hardy perennials. Leverage that high organic matter to grow a productive home garden this season.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ashland County have?
Ashland County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 28% silt, and 7% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ashland County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ashland County's soil has a low pH of 4.7, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Ashland County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Ashland County.
What crops or plants grow well in Ashland County's soil?
Based on Ashland County's Loam texture, pH of 4.7, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Ashland County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Ashland County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ashland County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Wisconsin
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.