Logan County Soil Data

Logan County, Kansas

Avg pH

7.6

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

1.7%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Logan County, Kansas

Logan County's High Alkaline Soil

Logan County has a distinctly alkaline soil with an average pH of 7.61, well above the national median of 6.5. This high pH is common in western Kansas and can limit the availability of certain nutrients like phosphorus. Growers here often need to select specialized varieties that tolerate basic soil conditions.

Silty Loam with Moderate Sand

The soil is comprised of 45.2% silt, 32.7% sand, and 21.4% clay. This mix provides a lighter texture than eastern counties, allowing for easier root penetration and better aeration. However, it also means the soil can be more susceptible to wind erosion if left uncovered.

Lower Fertility and Water Capacity

Organic matter in Logan County is 1.67%, trailing both the national average and the Kansas state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.165 in/in is also below the state benchmark of 0.180. These factors contribute to a lower overall soil score of 33.4, requiring careful resource management.

Navigating Arid Conditions

While specific drainage classes are not provided, the combination of moderate sand and lower water capacity indicates quick-drying soil. In this environment, moisture management is the top priority for any agricultural or landscaping project. Using mulches can help retain the precious water that the soil struggles to hold.

Hardy Natives for Zone 6a

Logan County sits in Hardiness Zone 6a, where winter-hardy plants and drought-resistant grasses perform best. While the soil score is lower, many native Kansas species are perfectly adapted to these alkaline, sandy conditions. Focus on xeriscaping or drip-irrigated vegetable beds to find gardening success here.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 32.7%
Silt: 45.2%
Clay: 21.4%
Loam

Soil pH

7.6pH
7.60622131441125
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Logan County have?

Logan County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 45% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Logan County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Logan County's soil has a pH of 7.6, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.

What is the drainage class for Logan County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Logan County.

What crops or plants grow well in Logan County's soil?

Based on Logan County's Loam texture, pH of 7.6, 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 Logan County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Logan County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.