Sauk County Soil Data
Sauk County, Wisconsin
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
6.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Sauk County, Wisconsin
Balanced pH in the Baraboo Range
Sauk County soils maintain an average pH of 5.88, which is higher than the Wisconsin average of 5.63. This acidity level is manageable for a wide variety of agricultural and gardening applications.
A versatile mix of silt and sand
The soil composition is nearly equal parts silt (39.8%) and sand (39.0%), with 12.2% clay. This blend offers a stable physical structure that resists compaction while allowing water to infiltrate.
Consistent moisture and decent organic levels
At 6.01%, the organic matter content is three times the national average. While the water capacity of 0.189 in/in is slightly below the state average, the 68.1 soil score indicates very healthy growing conditions.
Limited regional hydrological specifics
Data for specific drainage classes and hydrologic groups is currently unavailable for Sauk County. Local topography often dictates drainage here, with valley floors holding more moisture than the rocky hillsides.
Gardening success in Zone 5a
The 5a hardiness zone supports a diverse range of vegetables and perennials. Start a garden today to take advantage of the 5.88 pH, which is ideal for many popular Wisconsin cultivars.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Sauk County have?
Sauk County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 39% sand, 40% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Sauk County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Sauk County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Sauk County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Sauk County.
What crops or plants grow well in Sauk County's soil?
Based on Sauk County's Loam texture, pH of 5.9, 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 Sauk County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Sauk County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Sauk County
Soil Verdict
Sauk County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°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. With extreme winter lows, any marginally hardy plants need heavy mulch and wind protection. 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
Sauk County closely matches the Wisconsin average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Sauk 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.