Kings County Soil Data
Kings County, California
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Kings County, California
Alkaline Soils of Kings
Kings County has an average soil pH of 7.50, which is significantly more alkaline than the national 6.5 median. This high pH can limit the availability of certain nutrients for your plants. The county's overall soil score is 17.7, suggesting some natural limitations.
A Gritty, Sandy Mix
The soil is composed of 45.4% sand, 30.5% silt, and 22.8% clay. This high sand content means the soil is easy to work and drains relatively quickly. However, it may struggle to hold onto nutrients compared to heavier clay soils.
Low Natural Organic Matter
Organic matter is quite low at 1.22%, trailing the 3.30% state average and 2.0% national average. The available water capacity is 0.121 in/in, which is also below the California average of 0.141. Regular additions of compost will be necessary to boost soil health and water retention.
Managing Agricultural Runoff
Specific drainage and hydrologic groups are not listed, but the low soil score indicates management challenges. With high sand and low organic matter, water may move through the surface quickly but potentially pool elsewhere. Careful monitoring of your irrigation cycles is essential for success.
Cotton and Tomato Kingdom
Hardiness Zone 9a is a powerhouse for sun-loving crops like cotton and tomatoes. To succeed, focus on building up your organic matter to help the soil hold onto moisture. Your garden will reward you with heavy harvests if you feed the soil well.
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
Alkaline Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 7.5. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Kings County have?
Kings County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 45% sand, 31% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Kings County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Kings County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Kings County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Kings County.
What crops or plants grow well in Kings County's soil?
Based on Kings County's Loam texture, pH of 7.5, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Kings County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Kings County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Kings County
Soil Verdict
Kings County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal 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
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Kings County closely matches the California average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 9a-9b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Kings County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in California
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.