Vernon County Soil Data
Vernon County, Wisconsin
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.1
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Vernon County, Wisconsin
High-Quality Silt Loams
Vernon County boasts an average soil pH of 6.11, making it one of the closest in the state to the national median of 6.5. This pH level is significantly higher than the Wisconsin average of 5.63, creating a very hospitable environment for many vegetables. Taxonomic data is currently missing, but the chemical profile is among the state's best.
Silt Dominance in the Driftless
The soil is characterized by a high silt content of 52.0%, paired with 32.0% sand and 14.0% clay. This silt-heavy mix is prized for its ability to hold nutrients while remaining easy to till and plant. It represents a classic high-productivity soil texture typical of prime Wisconsin farmland.
Lean Organic Matter, Reliable Water Storage
Organic matter content is 3.49%, which is lower than the state average but still above the national average of 2.0%. Despite the lower organic levels, the available water capacity of 0.198 in/in is nearly identical to the state average of 0.204 in/in. This efficiency allows the soil to remain productive even with fewer biological inputs.
Stability on the Hillside
While specific drainage classes are not listed, the high silt and clay content helps the soil retain moisture longer than sandier counties. This provides a buffer against drought but may require attention to avoid compaction during wet years. Builders should note that this soil holds its structure well.
Thriving in Zone 5a
Vernon County resides in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, offering a slightly longer growing season than its northern neighbors. The high silt content and favorable pH make it an ideal spot for organic vegetable production and orchards. With a top-tier soil score of 70.5, this is some of the finest ground in the state.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Vernon County have?
Vernon County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 52% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Vernon County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Vernon County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Vernon County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Vernon County.
What crops or plants grow well in Vernon County's soil?
Based on Vernon County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.1, 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 Vernon County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Vernon County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Vernon County
Soil Verdict
Vernon 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
Vernon County closely matches the Wisconsin average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 4b-5a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Vernon 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.