Prowers County Soil Data
Prowers County, Colorado
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.7
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Prowers County, Colorado
Strongly Alkaline Clay Loams
Prowers County has a notably alkaline average pH of 7.73, which is significantly higher than the 6.5 national median. This level also exceeds the state average of 7.29, requiring gardeners to choose acid-loving plants carefully. The dominant soil texture is classified as clay loam.
Balanced Loam with Clay Retention
The soil is composed of 43.4% sand, 35.3% silt, and 20.5% clay, creating a heavy clay loam texture. This mix provides excellent nutrient retention but can be difficult to work when too wet or too dry. The silt and clay components help hold onto minerals essential for crop growth.
Low Organic Matter, High Water Storage
Organic matter is quite low at 1.06%, which is less than half the state average of 2.18%. However, the available water capacity is impressive at 0.151 in/in, outperforming the state average of 0.139. This means the soil holds onto moisture effectively once it is properly absorbed.
Poor Drainage and High Runoff
The soil is characterized as poorly drained and falls into Hydrologic Group D. This indicates a high runoff potential and a very slow rate of water transmission through the profile. Such conditions can lead to standing water, making drainage improvements necessary for many residential uses.
Summer Success in Zone 6a
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, Prowers County supports a wide variety of heat-loving crops like melons and alfalfa. While the soil score of 20.1 is below the state average, the high water capacity is a major asset in this dry climate. Focus on adding organic amendments to unlock the full potential of your land.
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
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Clay 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 Prowers County have?
Prowers County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 43% sand, 35% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Prowers County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Prowers 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 Prowers County?
Prowers County has a dominant drainage class of "Poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Prowers County's soil?
Based on Prowers County's Clay loam texture, pH of 7.7, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Prowers County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Prowers County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Prowers County
Soil Verdict
Prowers 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
Prowers County is somewhat warmer than the Colorado statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Prowers 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.