Elk County Soil Data
Elk County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Elk County, Kansas
Slightly Acidic Soils in Southeast Kansas
Elk County features an average pH of 6.30, which sits slightly below the national median of 6.5. This mild acidity helps plants absorb certain nutrients more efficiently than in more alkaline neighboring counties. With a soil score of 63.3, these lands significantly outperform the state average of 55.4.
Silt-Heavy Grounds Support Fine Texture
The soil profile consists of 54.3% silt, 27.9% clay, and a relatively low 17.8% sand. This composition creates a dense, fine-textured earth that holds its shape well. While high silt improves nutrient storage, the significant clay content means gardeners must manage the soil carefully to prevent compaction.
Above Average Organic Richness
Organic matter reaches 2.69%, surpassing both the Kansas state average of 2.22% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity exactly matches the state average at 0.180 in/in. This combination provides a fertile foundation for high-yield farming and gardening.
Understanding Elk County's Water Movement
Specific local data on dominant drainage classes is limited, but the high silt and clay content generally indicates slower water movement. Farmers and builders should watch for moisture retention during heavy rains. Proper site grading helps manage the runoff risks inherent in these heavier soil types.
Abundant Potential in Hardiness Zone 7a
Elk County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, allowing for a longer growing season than much of Kansas. The silt-rich soil and moderate climate are ideal for growing pecans, blackberries, and winter wheat. Get outside and start your garden today to take advantage of this high-scoring soil.
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
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Elk County have?
Elk County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 54% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Elk County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Elk 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 Elk County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Elk County.
What crops or plants grow well in Elk County's soil?
Based on Elk 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 Elk County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Elk County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Elk County
Soil Verdict
Elk County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Elk County is somewhat warmer than the Kansas statewide average. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Elk 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.