Manitowoc County Soil Data
Manitowoc County, Wisconsin
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.2
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
4.9%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin
Productive Silt Loam Alfisols
These Alfisols show a pH of 6.20, making them more alkaline than the state average of 5.63 and close to the 6.5 national median. Silt loam is the dominant texture across the county's landscape.
A Well-Balanced Physical Profile
The soil contains 44.4% sand, 33.8% silt, and 13.4% clay. This combination provides a well-balanced structure that supports both excellent drainage and sufficient nutrient retention for high-yield farming.
Modest Water Capacity and Matter
Organic matter stands at 4.93%, which is higher than the national 2% but lower than the state's 11.02% average. The available water capacity of 0.185 in/in is also slightly below the Wisconsin norm of 0.204 in/in.
Well-Drained for Building and Farming
Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group C, these soils move water through the profile steadily. This setup is ideal for deep-rooted crops and provides stable foundations for local building projects.
Thriving in Coastal Zone 5b
Zone 5b offers a moderate climate for diverse plantings from fruit trees to hardy perennials. With a strong soil score of 70.4, your Manitowoc garden starts with a significant geological advantage.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt 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 Manitowoc County have?
Manitowoc County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 34% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Manitowoc County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Manitowoc 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 Manitowoc County?
Manitowoc 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 Manitowoc County's soil?
Based on Manitowoc County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.2, 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 Manitowoc County?
Manitowoc 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: Manitowoc County
Soil Verdict
Manitowoc 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
Manitowoc County closely matches the Wisconsin average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Manitowoc 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.