McPherson County Soil Data
McPherson County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in McPherson County, Kansas
Slightly Acidic McPherson Soils
The average soil pH here is 6.37, which is slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.80. This level is still very productive and supports the healthy growth of most Midwestern grain and forage crops.
Coarser Texture for Better Workability
With 32.4% sand and 44.7% silt, these soils are coarser than many eastern Kansas counties. The 22.9% clay content is relatively low, which typically makes the soil easier to till and less prone to heavy clodding.
Solid Organic Foundations
The organic matter content stands at 2.31%, which is just above the Kansas average of 2.22%. However, the available water capacity of 0.175 in/in is slightly below the state average, meaning moisture management is key during the summer.
Flexible Drainage Opportunities
While taxonomic data is unavailable, the higher sand percentage likely leads to faster drainage than in heavier clay districts. This makes the county well-suited for diverse building projects and varied agricultural uses.
Abundant Growth in Zone 6b
McPherson County maintains a strong soil score of 61.1, indicating reliable growing potential. This Zone 6b climate is perfect for sunflowers and corn, especially when supplemented with organic mulches to retain moisture.
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 McPherson County have?
McPherson County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 45% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is McPherson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
McPherson County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for McPherson County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for McPherson County.
What crops or plants grow well in McPherson County's soil?
Based on McPherson County's Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 McPherson County?
The dominant USDA soil order for McPherson County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: McPherson County
Soil Verdict
McPherson 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
McPherson County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for McPherson 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.