Green Lake County Soil Data
Green Lake County, Wisconsin
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
5.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Green Lake County, Wisconsin
Balanced Alfisols and Loamy Textures
The soil here is classified as Alfisols with a loam texture and a pH of 6.08. This chemical balance is much closer to the national median of 6.5 than the typical Wisconsin soil profile.
The Ideal Loam for Gardeners
With 44.9% sand and 36.0% silt, the soil offers the perfect 'loam' feel that is prized for its workability. The 12.2% clay content provides enough stickiness to hold nutrients without causing drainage issues.
Healthy Biology with Moderate Water
The 5.54% organic matter content more than doubles the national average, providing plenty of fuel for plants. While the water capacity of 0.177 is below the state average, the high organic content helps maintain soil health.
Well-Drained Land for Stable Growth
The soil is officially classified as 'Well drained' and belongs to hydrologic group B. This is the ideal scenario for most plants and construction projects, as it prevents standing water while keeping roots hydrated.
Success in Zone 5a Landscapes
Green Lake County earns a 66.2 soil score, making it a reliable place for a productive garden in Zone 5a. The well-drained loamy soil is particularly well-suited for root vegetables and fruit trees.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Green Lake County have?
Green Lake County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 45% sand, 36% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Green Lake County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Green Lake County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Green Lake County?
Green Lake County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Green Lake County's soil?
Based on Green Lake County's Loam texture, pH of 6.1, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Green Lake County?
Green Lake County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Green Lake County
Soil Verdict
Green Lake 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
Green Lake County closely matches the Wisconsin average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Green Lake 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.