Adams County Soil Data
Adams County, Colorado
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Adams County, Colorado
Adams County’s Balanced pH Profile
Adams County features a pH of 6.91, which is notably closer to the national median of 6.5 than the Colorado state average of 7.29. The county’s soil score of 31.4 aligns almost perfectly with the state average of 31.3.
A Sandy Foundation for Growth
The soil is 50.0% sand, providing excellent aeration for root systems in a semi-arid climate. This high sand content, combined with 16.7% clay and 25.7% silt, suggests a soil that is easy to work but drains rapidly.
Managing Organic Matter Deficits
Organic matter sits at 1.41%, trailing both the state average of 2.18% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.126 in/in also indicates these fields hold slightly less moisture than the typical Colorado soil.
Limited Data on Hydrologic Flow
While specific drainage and taxonomic data are limited for this region, the high sand percentage generally suggests fast percolation. Urban developers and farmers should test local plots to confirm specific site hydrology before construction.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 6a
Adams County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, offering a robust growing window for local gardeners. Focus on hardy vegetables and drought-resistant perennials to make the most of this sandy, well-aerated landscape.
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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Adams County have?
Adams County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 50% sand, 26% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Adams County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Adams County's soil has a pH of 6.9, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Adams County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Adams County.
What crops or plants grow well in Adams County's soil?
Based on Adams County's Loam texture, pH of 6.9, 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 Adams County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Adams County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Adams County
Soil Verdict
Adams County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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
Adams County is somewhat warmer than the Colorado statewide average. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Adams County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Colorado
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.