Greeley County Soil Data
Greeley County, Kansas
Avg pH
7.5
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Greeley County, Kansas
Deep Mollisols of the High Plains
Greeley County is home to Mollisols, the dark, fertile soils that define the American breadbasket. Its pH of 7.48 is quite alkaline, significantly higher than the national median of 6.5. This chemical signature is ideal for many grain crops.
Silt-Rich Fine Sandy Loam
The soil composition is 50.8% silt, 28.8% sand, and 20.4% clay. Classified as a fine sandy loam, it offers a smooth texture that resists compaction better than heavy clay. The high silt content is a hallmark of the region's wind-blown loess deposits.
Excellent Water Storage Potential
Available water capacity is impressive at 0.195 in/in, beating the state average of 0.180. While organic matter is lower at 1.64%, the soil's ability to hold moisture is a major asset. This makes the land resilient during typical Kansas dry spells.
Well-Drained Ground for Builders
These soils are well-drained and fall into Hydrologic Group A, indicating high infiltration rates. This reduces the risk of standing water and makes the area suitable for various construction projects. Efficient drainage also helps prevent salt buildup in the soil.
Growing in Hardiness Zone 6a
Zone 6a enables a robust growing season for cool-season grasses and winter wheat. Native sunflowers and coneflowers will appreciate the alkaline, well-drained soil. It is a fantastic environment for anyone looking to cultivate the prairie.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Greeley County have?
Greeley County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 51% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Greeley County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Greeley County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Greeley County?
Greeley 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 Greeley County's soil?
Based on Greeley County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 7.5, 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 Greeley County?
Greeley 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.
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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.