Grant County Soil Data
Grant County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.4
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Grant County, Kansas
Sandy Entisols of Southwest Kansas
Grant County is characterized by Entisols, which are young soils with little development. The average pH of 7.36 is notably higher than the national 6.5 median. These alkaline conditions are typical for this arid part of the state.
Workable Fine Sandy Loam
The soil is a fine sandy loam made of 47.4% sand, 34.1% silt, and 18.5% clay. This high sand percentage allows for excellent workability and rapid aeration. However, it can struggle to hold onto nutrients compared to heavier clay soils.
Navigating Low Organic Matter
Organic matter is quite low at 1.32%, well below the state average of 2.22%. Available water capacity also lags at 0.157 in/in, indicating a need for consistent irrigation. Adding compost can help boost these numbers over time.
Rapid Drainage and High Infiltration
Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group A, these soils move water quickly. While this prevents ponding, it also means nutrients can leach away faster. This makes the county excellent for building foundations but demanding for thirsty crops.
Vibrant Growth in Zone 6b
Grant County falls in Hardiness Zone 6b, offering a long enough season for corn and sorghum. Drought-resistant varieties are essential given the sandy composition. Start with native sage or heat-tolerant vegetables to embrace the local climate.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Sandy Soil Detected
Sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out. These products boost water retention and organic matter.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Grant County have?
Grant County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 47% sand, 34% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Grant County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Grant County's soil has a pH of 7.4, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Grant County?
Grant 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 Grant County's soil?
Based on Grant County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 7.4, 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 Grant County?
Grant County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Grant County
Soil Verdict
Grant County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Grant County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Grant 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.