Brown County Soil Data
Brown County, Kansas
Avg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Brown County, Kansas
Brown County's Distinctive Acidic Soil
The soil in Brown County has an average pH of 6.34, which is slightly acidic compared to the national median of 6.5. This value is lower than the Kansas average of 6.80, a common trait for the state's northeastern corner. While taxonomic data is limited, this pH level is highly conducive to regional agriculture.
Fine-Textured Silt and Clay Dominance
The soil is remarkably low in sand at 11.4%, dominated instead by 59.0% silt and 29.6% clay. This fine texture creates a soil that is heavy and dense, capable of holding onto nutrients with great efficiency. It requires careful management to prevent compaction, especially when wet.
Exceptional Organic Matter and Water Storage
Brown County leads with a massive 3.04% organic matter, far exceeding the state average of 2.22%. Its available water capacity of 0.198 in/in is also significantly higher than the state average. This makes the county's soil some of the most drought-resistant and fertile land in Kansas.
Watching Water Flow in Heavy Soil
Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently not recorded for this county. The high concentration of silt and clay suggests that water moves slowly through the soil profile. Gardeners should ensure their plots have enough slope or drainage to prevent root rot.
Abundant Harvests in Zone 6a
The Zone 6a climate and rich, moisture-retaining soil make Brown County a gardener's dream. Large-scale crops like corn and soybeans thrive here, as do home-grown vegetables. Get started in your garden today and watch how the high organic matter transforms your plants.
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Brown County have?
Brown County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 11% sand, 59% silt, and 30% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Brown County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Brown County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Brown County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Brown County.
What crops or plants grow well in Brown County's soil?
Based on Brown County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Brown County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Brown County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Brown County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Kansas
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.