Montgomery County Soil Data
Montgomery County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.2
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Montgomery County, Kansas
Acidic Soils of the Southeast
Montgomery County has a soil pH of 6.18, which is more acidic than the state average of 6.80. This acidity is common in the more humid southeast and is favorable for plants like azaleas and blueberries.
Balanced Silt and Clay
The soil contains 53.0% silt and 27.5% clay, creating a heavy but productive growing medium. A sand content of 18.8% provides just enough texture to help with internal water movement compared to pure clay soils.
Healthy Organic Foundations
With 2.63% organic matter, these soils are richer in carbon than the state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.183 in/in is also slightly above the state mean, ensuring reliable moisture availability.
Slower Moisture Infiltration
Specific drainage class data is currently unavailable, but the high silt and clay percentages often lead to slower drainage. Homeowners and farmers should be mindful of water management during the wetter spring months.
Long Growing Seasons in Zone 7a
Montgomery County enjoys a warmer 7a hardiness zone, allowing for a longer growing season than most of Kansas. The soil score of 61.0 supports everything from traditional row crops to specialized market gardens.
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Montgomery County have?
Montgomery County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 53% silt, and 27% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Montgomery County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Montgomery County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Montgomery County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Montgomery County.
What crops or plants grow well in Montgomery County's soil?
Based on Montgomery County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.2, 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 Montgomery County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Montgomery County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Montgomery County
Soil Verdict
Montgomery County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Montgomery County is somewhat warmer than the Kansas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Montgomery 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.