Cheyenne County Soil Data
Cheyenne County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Cheyenne County, Kansas
Alkaline Plains in the High West
Cheyenne County soils are significantly alkaline, with an average pH of 7.53 compared to the national median of 6.5. This high pH is common in arid regions where minerals don't leach away as quickly. The county's soil score of 36.7 reflects the challenges of farming in a semi-arid climate compared to the state average of 55.4.
Sandy Foundations and Light Texture
The composition is a balanced 40.0% sand and 42.3% silt, with a low clay content of 17.7%. This light texture allows for easy workability and prevents the 'heavy' feel of eastern Kansas mud. However, the high sand content means nutrients can wash through the soil more quickly.
Modest Organic Matter, High Water Storage
Organic matter is low at 1.48%, falling short of the state average of 2.22% and the national 2.0% benchmark. Interestingly, the available water capacity hits the state average exactly at 0.180 in/in. This indicates that while the soil is lean on nutrients, it is quite efficient at holding onto the precious rainfall it receives.
Predictable Water Movement for Drylands
While specific drainage classes aren't listed, the high 40% sand content typically ensures quick infiltration. The soil's ability to hold 0.180 inches of water per inch of depth is crucial for dryland farming success in the High Plains. Careful management of surface cover is essential to prevent wind erosion in these lighter soils.
Resilient Gardening in Zone 6a
In Zone 6a, Cheyenne County gardeners should focus on drought-tolerant species and alkaline-loving plants. Wheat and grain sorghum thrive here, but home gardeners will find success with peppers, beans, and herbs like lavender. Use mulch to protect the 1.48% organic matter and conserve every drop of moisture.
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 7.5. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cheyenne County have?
Cheyenne County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 42% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cheyenne County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cheyenne County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Cheyenne County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cheyenne County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cheyenne County's soil?
Based on Cheyenne County's Loam texture, pH of 7.5, 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 Cheyenne County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cheyenne County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Cheyenne County
Soil Verdict
Cheyenne 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
Cheyenne County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cheyenne 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.