Marquette County Soil Data
Marquette County, Wisconsin
Avg pH
5.8
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
6.0%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Marquette County, Wisconsin
Fine Sandy Loam Alfisols
These Alfisols feature a pH of 5.80, which is less acidic than the state average of 5.63 but below the national 6.5 median. Fine sandy loam is the characteristic texture found across this landscape.
High Sand for Quick Tilling
With a high sand content of 60.6%, these soils are very light and easy to till for early spring planting. Silt and clay are lower at 20.7% and 8.9%, meaning the soil drains quickly but holds fewer nutrients.
Lower Water Retention Capacity
Organic matter is 5.96%, roughly half the state average of 11.02% but well above the national 2.0% average. The available water capacity of 0.159 in/in is significantly lower than the Wisconsin benchmark of 0.204 in/in.
Well Drained and Rapidly Infiltrating
The soil is classified as well-drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group B. This is excellent for preventing root rot but means crops may need more frequent irrigation during the peak of summer.
Drought-Tolerant Planting in Zone 5a
Marquette County falls into Zone 5a, making it suitable for a wide range of temperate plants. Focus on drought-tolerant species or install a watering system to keep your home garden lush.
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: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Marquette County have?
Marquette County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 61% sand, 21% silt, and 9% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Marquette County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Marquette County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Marquette County?
Marquette 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 Marquette County's soil?
Based on Marquette County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 5.8, 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 Marquette County?
Marquette 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Marquette 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.