Decatur County Soil Data
Decatur County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.2
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Decatur County, Kansas
Alkaline Mollisols of the Plains
Decatur County is defined by Mollisol soils with a notably alkaline pH of 7.23. This is significantly higher than the national median of 6.5 and the Kansas state average of 6.80.
A Smooth Silt Loam Texture
Silt dominates the profile at 60.2%, giving the soil a smooth, workable texture. The 22.2% clay content provides enough body to retain nutrients while 17.7% sand helps prevent extreme compaction.
Exceptional Water Storage Potential
The available water capacity of 0.205 in/in is far superior to the Kansas average of 0.180. Even though organic matter is slightly below the state average at 2.09%, the soil excels at keeping plants hydrated during dry spells.
Well Drained for Farming
Classified as well drained and falling into hydrologic group B, these soils offer moderate infiltration. This balance allows water to move to the roots without draining away too quickly for crops to use.
Hardy Growing in Zone 6a
Zone 6a is excellent for winter wheat and cool-weather vegetables like peas and kale. With such high water-holding capacity, your garden will be remarkably resilient against the Kansas wind and sun.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Decatur County have?
Decatur County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 60% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Decatur County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Decatur County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Decatur County?
Decatur County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Decatur County's soil?
Based on Decatur County's Silt loam texture, pH of 7.2, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Decatur County?
Decatur County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Decatur County
Soil Verdict
Decatur 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
Decatur County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Decatur 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.