Kenosha County Soil Data
Kenosha County, Wisconsin
Avg pH
5.9
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
5.5%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Kenosha County, Wisconsin
Productive Silt Loam Mollisols
Kenosha County sits on fertile Mollisols with an average pH of 5.86, which is higher than the state average of 5.63. While still more acidic than the national median of 6.5, these soils are naturally rich in nutrients. These 'prairie soils' are famous for their deep, dark topsoil layers.
Balanced and Workable Silt Loam
The dominant texture is silt loam, featuring 41.7% silt and 31.3% sand. The 16.0% clay content adds enough structure to hold nutrients without making the soil difficult to till. This balanced mix is highly prized for its ability to support a wide range of garden plants and field crops.
Reliable Water Storage Capacity
Kenosha's available water capacity is 0.195 in/in, slightly below the state average of 0.204. Organic matter stands at 5.54%, which is more than double the national average of 2.0% but lower than the state's 11.02%. This indicates a consistent and fertile growing environment that responds well to compost.
Steady Moisture Control
Classified as moderately well-drained, this soil keeps moisture accessible without staying saturated for too long. It falls into Hydrologic Group B/D, suggesting drainage can vary depending on the local water table. It is generally a stable choice for residential landscaping and gardening.
Growing Success in Zone 5b
The 69.9 soil score indicates a quality above the state average of 68.2, supporting a long list of successful crops. In Zone 5b, gardeners can enjoy a relatively long growing season for tomatoes, peppers, and beans. The fertile silt loam is an excellent asset for any home grower.
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
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 Kenosha County have?
Kenosha County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 42% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Kenosha County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Kenosha County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Kenosha County?
Kenosha County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Kenosha County's soil?
Based on Kenosha County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.9, and Moderately 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 Kenosha County?
Kenosha County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Kenosha 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.