Pierce County Soil Data

Pierce County, Wisconsin

Avg pH

6.2

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

2.4%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Pierce County, Wisconsin

Pierce's High-pH Advantage

Pierce County soil features a pH of 6.19, which is the highest in this group and approaches the national median of 6.5. This makes it significantly more alkaline than the Wisconsin average of 5.63, benefiting nutrient availability.

A Silty Foundation

The soil composition is dominated by 46.0% silt and 40.9% sand, with 13.0% clay. This silty mix is excellent for capturing moisture while remaining porous enough for healthy root respiration.

Lower Organic Reserves

At 2.45%, the organic matter is the lowest in this list, though still above the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.189 in/in falls just short of the state average, suggesting a need for mulching.

Navigating Silt Drainage

High silt content can sometimes lead to surface crusting after rain, which affects how water enters the soil. Gardeners should use compost to improve the structure and prevent the soil from becoming too compact over time.

Zone 4b Growing Success

Pierce County's soil score of 62.9 and its 4b hardiness zone provide a solid foundation for apple orchards and berries. Start a garden here by adding organic amendments to boost the soil's naturally lower organic matter levels.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 40.9%
Silt: 46.0%
Clay: 13.0%
Loam

Soil pH

6.2pH
6.18823991830731
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Series

Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.

Hydrologic Group

Hydrologic group data not available.

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Pierce County have?

Pierce County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 41% sand, 46% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Pierce County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Pierce 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 Pierce County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Pierce County.

What crops or plants grow well in Pierce County's soil?

Based on Pierce County's Loam texture, pH of 6.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.

What USDA soil order is found in Pierce County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Pierce County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.