Racine County Soil Data
Racine County, Wisconsin
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
5.4%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Racine County, Wisconsin
Alfisols provide a stable agricultural base
Racine County's landscape is dominated by Alfisols with a loam texture and an average pH of 5.84. This pH level is healthier than the state average of 5.63, though it remains below the national median of 6.5.
High silt content aids nutrient retention
The composition consists of 31.1% sand, 41.6% silt, and 16.0% clay. The relatively high clay and silt percentages help the soil hold onto nutrients and water better than sandier counties to the north.
Solid fertility despite lower organic matter
The organic matter content stands at 5.41%, which is above the national average but below the 11.02% state average. The soil score of 69.5 reflects a high productivity potential compared to many other Wisconsin regions.
Well-drained land with moderate runoff
Classified as well-drained and part of hydrologic group C, Racine’s soil moves water effectively but can be prone to slower infiltration. This makes it a reliable choice for both large-scale farming and suburban gardening.
Longer growing seasons in Zone 5b
The 5b hardiness zone allows for a wider variety of crops, including peppers and tomatoes. Take advantage of the 0.196 in/in water capacity to grow a lush, productive backyard garden.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Racine County have?
Racine County's soil is classified as 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 Racine County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Racine 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 Racine County?
Racine 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 Racine County's soil?
Based on Racine County's 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 Racine County?
Racine 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: Racine County
Soil Verdict
Racine 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
Racine County closely matches the Wisconsin average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Racine 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.