Ness County Soil Data
Ness County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Ness County, Kansas
High Alkalinity in Ness County
Ness County soils are significantly alkaline, with an average pH of 7.41 compared to the national median of 6.5. This can often limit the availability of certain micronutrients like iron and phosphorus for plants.
Standard Silty Composition
The soil is dominated by 54.7% silt and 24.9% clay, rounded out by 19.4% sand. This mix provides a balanced structure that offers decent workability while maintaining the ability to hold onto water.
Moderate Organic Levels
The organic matter content stands at 1.95%, which is slightly below the Kansas average of 2.22%. However, the available water capacity is quite high at 0.197 in/in, offering better moisture storage than many neighboring counties.
Efficient Water Management
While specific drainage class data is not available, the 0.197 in/in water capacity indicates a soil that can absorb and store significant rainfall. This is a critical trait for surviving the semi-arid climate of Western Kansas.
Hardy Crops for Zone 6a
This region is best suited for drought-resistant crops like wheat and milo in its 6a hardiness zone. For home gardeners, utilizing compost can help lower the high pH and boost the moderate organic matter levels.
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
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ness County have?
Ness County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 55% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ness County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ness 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 Ness County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Ness County.
What crops or plants grow well in Ness County's soil?
Based on Ness County's Silt 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 Ness County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Ness County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Ness County
Soil Verdict
Ness County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Ness 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 Ness 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.