Norton County Soil Data
Norton 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 Norton County, Kansas
Mildly Alkaline Northern Soils
Norton County presents an average soil pH of 7.07, which is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 6.80. This neutral-to-alkaline shift is common in the High Plains and supports a variety of prairie grasses.
The Siltiest Soils in the Region
With a high silt content of 60.0%, this soil is exceptionally fine-textured and smooth. The remaining mix of 21.7% clay and 18.2% sand creates a fertile medium that is prized for its physical workability.
High Moisture Retention
Norton County excels in available water capacity at 0.207 in/in, significantly higher than the Kansas average of 0.180. The organic matter content of 2.09% is nearly on par with the state average, providing a solid base for growth.
A Superior Water Reservoir
The exceptional water capacity suggests these soils are excellent at buffering against drought. Although drainage classification data is unavailable, the high silt percentage typically allows for steady, even moisture distribution.
Lush Potential in Zone 6a
Norton County falls into hardiness zone 6a, making it ideal for cool-season grasses and hardy vegetables. With such high water capacity, your garden has a natural advantage during the hot Kansas summers.
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 Norton County have?
Norton County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 60% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Norton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Norton 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 Norton County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Norton County.
What crops or plants grow well in Norton County's soil?
Based on Norton 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 Norton County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Norton County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Norton County
Soil Verdict
Norton 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
Norton County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Norton 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.