Arapahoe County Soil Data
Arapahoe County, Colorado
Avg pH
6.7
Texture
Variable
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Arapahoe County, Colorado
Arapahoe’s Young and Balanced Soils
Arapahoe County’s soil belongs to the Entisol order and holds a strong soil score of 40.8. Its pH of 6.73 is remarkably close to the national median of 6.5 and much less alkaline than the state average of 7.29.
Balanced Texture for Versatility
The composition is a mix of 43.6% sand and 30.5% silt, creating a versatile texture for various uses. With 19.0% clay, the soil retains nutrients better than sandier neighbors while maintaining decent workability.
Reliable Water Storage Capacity
Organic matter measures 1.54%, which is lower than the national 2.0% benchmark. However, the available water capacity of 0.140 in/in slightly exceeds the state average, providing a reliable moisture reservoir for local plants.
Well-Drained but Runoff-Prone
The soil is classified as well-drained, yet it falls into hydrologic group D, which implies high runoff potential when the ground is saturated. This means water moves through the profile effectively but may struggle to soak in during heavy storms.
Bountiful Options in Zone 6a
Within USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, this soil supports a wide variety of temperate garden favorites. Homeowners can find great success with everything from ornamental grasses to high-yielding vegetable beds with minimal amendment.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Variable
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Arapahoe County have?
Arapahoe County's soil is classified as Variable. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 31% silt, and 19% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Arapahoe County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Arapahoe County's soil has a pH of 6.7, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Arapahoe County?
Arapahoe County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Arapahoe County's soil?
Based on Arapahoe County's Variable texture, pH of 6.7, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Arapahoe County?
Arapahoe County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Arapahoe 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.