Elk County Soil Data
Elk County, Kansas
Avg 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
Frequently 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.
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.