Kiowa County Soil Data
Kiowa County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Kiowa County, Kansas
Neutral Sands in Kiowa County
Kiowa County features a near-neutral soil with an average pH of 6.83, sitting slightly above the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is limited for this region, the soil chemistry provides a stable environment for nutrient uptake. This pH level aligns closely with the Kansas state average of 6.80.
High Sand for Rapid Drainage
The county's soil composition is 46.2% sand, significantly higher than many neighboring regions. This is balanced by 36.1% silt and 17.3% clay, resulting in a texture that offers excellent aeration but limited nutrient retention. Gardeners here find the soil easy to work, though it requires frequent watering.
Lower Organic Matter Requires Management
Organic matter sits at 1.55%, which is well below the state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.161 in/in also trails the state benchmark of 0.180, indicating a lower ability to hold moisture during dry spells. Improving soil health with compost is essential for maximizing growth potential.
Limited Drainage Data for Kiowa
Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are currently unavailable for this area. However, the high sand content suggests naturally fast drainage that may prevent waterlogging. Local builders and farmers should perform site-specific tests to confirm groundwater behavior.
Successful Growing in Zone 6b
Falling within USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, this region is well-suited for heat-tolerant varieties of melons and grains. Because the sandy soil dries out quickly, installing drip irrigation can help your garden thrive. Start your planting journey with drought-resistant natives to build a resilient landscape.
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 Kiowa County have?
Kiowa County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 36% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Kiowa County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Kiowa County's soil has a pH of 6.8, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Kiowa County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Kiowa County.
What crops or plants grow well in Kiowa County's soil?
Based on Kiowa County's Loam texture, pH of 6.8, 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 Kiowa County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Kiowa County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Kiowa County
Soil Verdict
Kiowa 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
Kiowa County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Kiowa 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.