Milwaukee County Soil Data
Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
Avg pH
6.1
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
5.8%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
Milwaukee's Rich Mollisol Identity
Milwaukee's silty clay loam belongs to the Mollisols taxonomic order, which is typically found under grassland ecosystems. The county's average pH of 6.13 is more acidic than the national median of 6.5 but stays well above the Wisconsin average of 5.63.
Silty Clay Loam Textures
This soil contains 29.8% sand, 45.5% silt, and 16.2% clay, creating a heavy but nutrient-rich profile. The high silt content ensures decent workability, though the clay requires careful management to avoid compaction.
Strong Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter reaches 5.83%, nearly tripling the national average of 2.0%. With an available water capacity of 0.204 in/in, the soil matches the state average for keeping plants hydrated through dry spells.
Managing Poor Drainage
Classified as very poorly drained with a C/D hydrologic group, this soil holds onto water stubbornly. Urban gardeners should utilize raised beds or drainage tile to prevent root rot during wet Wisconsin springs.
Urban Gardening in Zone 6a
Milwaukee's 6a hardiness zone and high soil score of 78.4 make it a powerhouse for urban agriculture. The temperate climate and rich soil are perfect for growing heavy-feeders like tomatoes and leafy greens.
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
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Milwaukee County have?
Milwaukee County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 46% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Milwaukee County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee County?
Milwaukee County has a dominant drainage class of "Very poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Milwaukee County's soil?
Based on Milwaukee County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.1, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Milwaukee County?
Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee 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.