Dane County Soil Data
Dane County, Wisconsin
Avg pH
6.2
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Dane County, Wisconsin
High-Performance Soil in South-Central Wisconsin
Dane County's impressive 75.6 soil score reflects a high-quality agricultural landscape that easily beats the state average of 68.2. The average pH of 6.24 is very close to the optimal national median of 6.5, making it highly versatile. This creates a fertile environment that requires fewer chemical adjustments than northern counties.
Silty Soils with Substantial Clay
The soil is comprised of 50.2% silt and 16.7% clay, balanced by 30.7% sand. This high silt and clay combination provides excellent structural stability and nutrient retention. While it can be heavier to work than sandy soils, it offers the consistency needed for high-yield farming.
State-Leading Water Storage Capacity
The available water capacity of 0.205 in/in slightly exceeds the state average, ensuring crops stay hydrated during dry spells. Organic matter stands at 3.59%, which is healthy by national standards though lower than the state's 11.02% average. This profile is perfect for retaining fertilizers and supporting intense plant growth.
Stable Hydrology for Diverse Use
The county's soil score and composition suggest moderate to high moisture retention with predictable drainage patterns. While specific drainage classes aren't in this data set, the silty texture is known for its ability to hold water without becoming instantly waterlogged. This makes the land equally suitable for residential lawns and commercial agriculture.
Abundant Harvests in Zone 5a
As a Zone 5a region, Dane County is an ideal spot for peppers, tomatoes, and even some varieties of melons. The rich silty soil provides the deep nutrient base that heavy-fruiting plants crave. Whether you are in Madison or the countryside, this soil is ready for a high-production vegetable garden.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Dane County have?
Dane County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 50% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Dane County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Dane County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Dane County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Dane County.
What crops or plants grow well in Dane County's soil?
Based on Dane County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.2, 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 Dane County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Dane County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Dane 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.