Hodgeman County Soil Data
Hodgeman County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.5
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Hodgeman County, Kansas
Highly Alkaline Silty Soils
The soil is notably alkaline with a pH of 7.46, sitting well above the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is limited here, the high alkalinity suggests a need for specific plant choices or acid-loving amendments.
Silt-Heavy Foundation
A silt-heavy profile of 55.2% dominates the composition, balanced by 25.1% clay and 18.7% sand. This mixture provides a smooth, workable surface that retains nutrients and moisture better than sandy alternatives.
Solid Water Retention Capacity
Organic matter reaches 2.09%, which nearly matches the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.201 in/in is quite strong, exceeding the Kansas state average of 0.180 in/in.
Steady Hydration for Crops
Specific drainage class data is unavailable for this area, but the high silt content usually implies moderate permeability. This composition generally supports steady hydration for deep-rooted crops and stable building foundations.
Prairie Gardening in 6b
Located in hardiness zone 6b, Hodgeman is suited for hardy vegetables and native prairie grasses. You can cultivate a thriving plot by choosing plants that can handle the regional summer sun and alkaline 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: Silt 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 Hodgeman County have?
Hodgeman County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 55% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hodgeman County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hodgeman 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 Hodgeman County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hodgeman County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hodgeman County's soil?
Based on Hodgeman County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 7.5, 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 Hodgeman County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Hodgeman County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Hodgeman County
Soil Verdict
Hodgeman 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
Hodgeman County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hodgeman 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.