Mitchell County Soil Data
Mitchell County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.1
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Mitchell County, Kansas
Neutral and Steady Mitchell Soils
Mitchell County features a pH of 7.08, placing it slightly above the state average of 6.80. This neutral chemistry is ideal for legumes and many common garden vegetables that prefer less acidic conditions.
A Classic Silt-Heavy Mix
The soil composition consists of 56.5% silt and 26.9% clay, providing a dense structure that holds nutrients well. Sand accounts for only 16.1%, meaning the soil has a fine texture that can become sticky when saturated.
High Water Storage Potential
Organic matter sits at 2.14%, very close to the state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity is quite high at 0.192 in/in, outperforming the state mean and providing a safety net for crops during dry intervals.
Substantial Moisture Retention
Though specific drainage classifications are limited, the high silt content and water capacity suggest the ground retains moisture for a long time. This is a benefit for dryland farming but may require attention when planning foundations or basements.
Reliable Yields in Zone 6b
Mitchell County’s soil score of 57.6 is higher than the state average, signifying dependable agricultural land. In Zone 6b, focus on planting corn and soy, or start a vegetable patch that will thrive in this nutrient-rich silty 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
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Mitchell County have?
Mitchell County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 56% silt, and 27% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Mitchell County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Mitchell County's soil has a pH of 7.1, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Mitchell County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Mitchell County.
What crops or plants grow well in Mitchell County's soil?
Based on Mitchell County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 7.1, 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 Mitchell County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Mitchell County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Mitchell County
Soil Verdict
Mitchell 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
Mitchell County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Mitchell 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.