Graham County Soil Data
Graham County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Graham County, Kansas
Alkaline Soils in Graham County
Graham County soils average a pH of 7.27, making them significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is limited here, these levels are common across the High Plains. Gardeners may need to monitor pH levels for acid-loving plants.
A Silt-Dominant Texture Mix
The soil contains 49.3% silt, 31.3% sand, and 19.4% clay. This high silt content ensures the ground is easy to work while maintaining a decent structure. It strikes a functional balance between drainage and stability.
Strong Water Capacity Despite Low Organic Matter
Organic matter sits at 1.82%, trailing both the Kansas average of 2.22% and the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity of 0.182 in/in exceeds the state average. This helps crops survive during the dry cycles common to the region.
Managing Water in Central Kansas
Specific drainage class data is limited for this area, but the county's soil score of 46.7 reflects some environmental challenges. Proper irrigation management is vital given the alkaline profile. Local testing is recommended before starting significant drainage-sensitive projects.
Gardening in Hardiness Zone 6a
With a 6a hardiness rating, Graham County is well-suited for winter wheat and hardy native grasses. Home gardeners can succeed with sunflowers, squash, and drought-tolerant perennials. The soil's water retention provides a solid foundation for a 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: 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 Graham County have?
Graham County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 49% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Graham County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Graham County's soil has a pH of 7.3, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Graham County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Graham County.
What crops or plants grow well in Graham County's soil?
Based on Graham County's Loam texture, pH of 7.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Graham County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Graham County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Graham County
Soil Verdict
Graham 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
Graham County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Graham 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.