Bent County Soil Data
Bent County, Colorado
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.7
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Bent County, Colorado
Bent County’s Highly Alkaline Soils
Bent County has a soil score of 23.5 and a distinctly alkaline profile with a pH of 7.68. This alkalinity is significantly higher than the national median of 6.5 and exceeds the Colorado state average of 7.29.
Heavier Clay for Better Retention
The soil is composed of 38.1% sand and 37.7% silt, creating a fine-textured base. The clay content of 23.3% is higher than many neighbors, which helps with nutrient retention but may increase the risk of surface compaction.
Superior Water Storage Capacity
Organic matter is relatively sparse at 1.29% compared to the state average of 2.18%. However, its available water capacity of 0.153 in/in is well above the state average, providing excellent moisture storage for irrigated crops.
Managing Slower Water Infiltration
While official drainage classifications are not listed, the higher clay and silt levels suggest a slower-draining soil profile. This characteristic requires careful water management to prevent surface pooling during heavy summer storms.
Agricultural Success in Zone 6a
Classified as USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, Bent County offers a stable climate for consistent agricultural production. Local gardeners can cultivate a wide range of hardy vegetables and orchard fruits with proper soil amendments to balance the pH.
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 7.7. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Bent County have?
Bent County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 38% sand, 38% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Bent County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Bent County's soil has a pH of 7.7, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Bent County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Bent County.
What crops or plants grow well in Bent County's soil?
Based on Bent County's Loam texture, pH of 7.7, 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 Bent County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Bent County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Bent County
Soil Verdict
Bent 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
Bent County is somewhat warmer than the Colorado statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bent 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.