Taylor County Soil Data
Taylor County, Wisconsin
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
20.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Taylor County, Wisconsin
Rich, Acidic Soils of the North
Taylor County has an average pH of 5.12, placing it well below the state average of 5.63 and the national median of 6.5. This high level of acidity is typical for the region but requires lime for most commercial gardening. Specific taxonomic orders are currently not part of the documented local dataset.
Silt-Rich Mix with Fine Texture
The soil is composed of 43.8% silt and 28.1% sand, giving it a fine, almost silky texture. With a low clay content of 8.1%, the soil avoids the heavy compaction issues found in other regions. This silt-heavy balance provides a stable medium for roots to expand without much resistance.
Outstanding Moisture and Organic Content
Taylor County shines in fertility with 20.77% organic matter, nearly doubling the state average of 11.02%. This rich organic layer supports a high available water capacity of 0.257 in/in, significantly outperforming the state average of 0.204 in/in. Plants here have access to a massive reservoir of nutrients and moisture.
Naturally High Water Retention
While drainage class data is missing, the high organic matter and silt content suggest a soil that holds moisture very effectively. This can be a challenge during wet springs but acts as a safeguard during summer droughts. Farmers should be aware of potentially slower drying times compared to sandy neighbors.
Zone 4a Cold-Hardy Potential
As a Zone 4a region, Taylor County is suited for short-season crops and incredibly hardy perennials. The high organic content makes it an exceptional place for growing root crops, berries, and native evergreens. With its soil score of 69.4, it beats the state average and offers a fertile starting point for any garden.
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 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Taylor County have?
Taylor County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 28% sand, 44% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Taylor County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Taylor County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Taylor County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Taylor County.
What crops or plants grow well in Taylor County's soil?
Based on Taylor County's Loam texture, pH of 5.1, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Taylor County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Taylor County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Taylor County
Soil Verdict
Taylor County is in USDA hardiness zone 4a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -30°F. Soils here experience deep freeze cycles that can disrupt structure, kill shallow roots, and slow microbial activity for months each year.
Planting Guidance
Focus on cold-hardy perennials, native grasses, and conifers. The short growing window favors plants with low heat requirements. 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
Deep winter freezing can create soil heaving that pushes shallow-rooted plants out of the ground; add 3-4 inches of organic mulch each fall. Soil drainage is critical — frozen, waterlogged soil kills roots faster than cold alone. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Taylor County is somewhat cooler than the Wisconsin statewide average. The zone range of 4a-4b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Taylor 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.