Coffey County Soil Data
Coffey County, Kansas
Avg pH
6.2
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Coffey County, Kansas
Acidic Foundations in the Osage Cuestas
Coffey County soils have an average pH of 6.22, making them more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and the Kansas average of 6.80. This acidity level is common in eastern Kansas where higher rainfall leaches out basic minerals. Despite this, the county maintains a productive soil score of 61.8.
Dense Silt and Clay Profiles
The soil is characterized by 58.5% silt and 28.5% clay, with only 12.5% sand. This heavy, fine-textured mix can be prone to compaction and may drain slowly compared to sandier regions. It is a nutrient-rich environment that requires careful management to maintain good aeration.
Healthy Organic Matter and Water Storage
Organic matter is strong at 2.54%, comfortably above the Kansas state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity is also high at 0.183 in/in, beating the state benchmark of 0.180. This combination ensures that plants have access to both the food and water they need to thrive.
Moisture-Retentive Silty Earth
While drainage class data is not specified, the high silt and clay percentages point to a soil that holds water tightly. The 0.183 available water capacity is a strength for long-term plant health but may mean gardens stay muddy longer in the spring. Proper drainage planning is helpful for any new construction or garden beds.
A Gardener's Haven in Zone 6b
Coffey County’s Zone 6b is ideal for cool-season crops like kale and peas, as well as summer favorites like peppers. The 2.54% organic matter provides a great head start for any planting project. With its high water storage potential, this soil is ready for you to start a lush, productive 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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Coffey County have?
Coffey County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 12% sand, 59% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Coffey County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Coffey County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Coffey County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Coffey County.
What crops or plants grow well in Coffey County's soil?
Based on Coffey County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.2, 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 Coffey County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Coffey County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Coffey 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.