Door County Soil Data
Door County, Wisconsin
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Sand
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
9.0%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Door County, Wisconsin
Sandy Entisols of the Door Peninsula
Door County is dominated by Entisols, which are young soils with limited development, featuring an average pH of 5.97. This pH level is slightly above the state average of 5.63 but below the national median of 6.5. These soils reflect the county's unique geography, balancing between rocky outcrops and sandy shores.
A Dominant Sandy Texture
The county's soil is 48.8% sand, 24.1% silt, and 11.4% clay, leading to a primary classification of sand. This high sand content means the soil is loose, easy to dig, and does not compact easily. However, this same texture can make it difficult for the soil to hold onto nutrients and water.
High Organic Matter in Sandy Earth
Surprisingly, Door County maintains a high 9.04% organic matter content, which is significantly higher than the national average of 2.0%. However, its available water capacity of 0.176 in/in is lower than the state's 0.204 average. This means that while the soil is rich in nutrients, it requires frequent watering due to its sandy nature.
Excessively Drained Landscapes
Classified as excessively drained and belonging to hydrologic group A, water moves through this soil very quickly. This is ideal for preventing root rot but can lead to rapid drying in the summer months. Builders find this drainage beneficial for stable foundations, though gardeners must plan for irrigation.
Famous Cherry and Berry Soil
In Zone 5b, the combination of sandy, well-drained soil and lake-moderated climate is world-famous for cherries and strawberries. The high organic matter supports these perennial fruits perfectly. If you are starting a garden, focus on fruit trees and drought-tolerant perennials that love good drainage.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 6.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Door County have?
Door County's soil is classified as Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 49% sand, 24% silt, and 11% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Door County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Door County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Door County?
Door County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Door County's soil?
Based on Door County's Sand texture, pH of 6.0, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists.
What USDA soil order is found in Door County?
Door County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Door County
Soil Verdict
Door County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°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. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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
Door County closely matches the Wisconsin average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Door 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.