Cloud County Soil Data
Cloud County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.6
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Cloud County, Kansas
Near-Neutral Ground in the Republican Valley
Cloud County boasts an average pH of 6.62, placing it very close to the national median of 6.5. This near-neutral acidity is slightly lower than the Kansas average of 6.80 and is generally considered ideal for a wide range of plants. The county earns a strong soil score of 68.3, outperforming the state average.
Silt-Driven Soils for Stability
The soil composition is 55.2% silt, 23.2% clay, and 21.4% sand. This silty dominance provides a smooth texture that holds moisture well without becoming as difficult to work as heavy clay. It offers a stable medium for both agricultural equipment and delicate garden roots.
Superior Water Capacity for the Plains
Cloud County features 2.37% organic matter, which is higher than the state average of 2.22%. Its available water capacity of 0.193 in/in is one of the highest in the region, significantly beating the state average of 0.180. This soil acts like a sponge, storing moisture for use during the heat of July and August.
High-Capacity Moisture Storage
Although specific drainage classes aren't provided, the high available water capacity indicates a soil that excels at internal moisture management. The 23.2% clay content helps prevent nutrients from leaching too quickly through the profile. For builders and gardeners, this means the soil is resilient but may stay damp after heavy rains.
Thriving in Zone 6b
Zone 6b in Cloud County is great for everything from orchard fruits like apples to summer squash. The excellent water capacity of 0.193 in/in means you’ll spend less time watering than your neighbors in other counties. It is a fantastic environment for anyone looking to start a productive home garden.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cloud County have?
Cloud County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 21% sand, 55% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cloud County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cloud County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Cloud County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cloud County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cloud County's soil?
Based on Cloud County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.6, 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 Cloud County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cloud County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Cloud County
Soil Verdict
Cloud County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Cloud County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cloud 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.