Meade County Soil Data
Meade County, Kansas
Avg pH
7.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Meade County, Kansas
Alkaline Soils of the Plains
Meade County features a more alkaline soil profile with a pH of 7.41, exceeding the state average of 6.80. This chemistry is typical for the drier western region and may require specific management for acid-loving plants.
High Sand and Fast Movement
The composition is 42.9% sand and 36.6% silt, creating a relatively light and porous soil structure. With only 20.4% clay, water moves through these profiles quickly, allowing for excellent aeration of plant roots.
Challenging Water and Organic Levels
Organic matter is lower than average at 1.62%, compared to the state's 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.167 in/in also trails the state average, making irrigation a critical component of successful farming here.
Managing Rapid Infiltration
Specific drainage classes are not currently mapped, but the high sand content suggests rapid drainage and low risk of ponding. This makes the land very workable shortly after rain, though it dries out much faster than eastern soils.
Hardy Crops for Zone 6b
A soil score of 37.7 reflects the challenges of a semi-arid climate, but drought-tolerant crops still thrive. Focus on sorghum, millet, or native prairie gardens that are adapted to Meade's unique soil and 6b hardiness zone.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Meade County have?
Meade County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 43% sand, 37% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Meade County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Meade County's soil has a pH of 7.4, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Meade County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Meade County.
What crops or plants grow well in Meade County's soil?
Based on Meade County's Loam texture, pH of 7.4, 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 Meade County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Meade County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Meade 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.