Rock County Soil Data

Rock County, Wisconsin

Avg pH

6.2

Texture

Loam

Drainage

Well drained

Organic Matter

4.7%

Hydrologic Group

B

Data Story

About Soil in Rock County, Wisconsin

Top-tier agricultural soils in Rock County

Rock County features Alfisols with a loam texture and a pH of 6.18, the highest in this group. This approaches the national median of 6.5 and is much more alkaline than the Wisconsin average of 5.63.

The ideal loam for diverse farming

The soil contains 40.8% silt, 38.2% sand, and 16.5% clay. This 'Goldilocks' mix provides excellent drainage, good aeration, and high nutrient-holding capacity for local farmers.

Wisconsin's leading soil health score

Rock County earns an impressive soil score of 75.2, well above the state average of 68.2. While organic matter is 4.67%, the soil's structure and 0.198 in/in water capacity make it highly productive.

Reliable drainage for development and crops

The soil is well-drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. These conditions are perfect for maintaining healthy root systems and providing stable ground for building projects.

Maximum productivity in Zone 5b

With a 5b hardiness zone and high-quality loam, Rock County is a gardener's paradise. You can successfully grow everything from corn to delicate flowering perennials in this prime soil.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 38.2%
Silt: 40.8%
Clay: 16.5%
Loam

Soil pH

6.2pH
6.18152188850493
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

Group B — Moderate Runoff

Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.

Runoff potential:Moderate

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

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 Rock County have?

Rock County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 38% sand, 41% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Rock County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Rock 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 Rock County?

Rock 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 Rock County's soil?

Based on Rock County's 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 Rock County?

Rock 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.

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.