Osage County Soil Data
Osage County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.1
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Osage County, Kansas
Acidic and Dense Osage Soils
Osage County features an average pH of 6.13, which is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This environment often requires lime applications to balance the soil for traditional row crops.
High Silt and Clay Content
The soil is comprised of 57.9% silt and 29.3% clay, with very little sand at only 10.2%. This dense, heavy mix creates a soil that is excellent at holding nutrients but can be difficult to work when wet.
Rich in Organic Life
The organic matter content is high at 2.82%, well above the state average of 2.22%. An available water capacity of 0.193 in/in also beats the state benchmark, signaling a very productive landscape.
Slow Drainage Dynamics
The high clay and silt percentages combined with limited sand suggest a soil that holds water tightly. This can lead to slower drainage after heavy rains, which gardeners should manage by using raised beds.
Fruitful Gardening in Zone 6b
Located in zone 6b, Osage County is perfect for organic-rich gardening of leafy greens and root vegetables. The natural fertility of this soil makes it a great place to start a backyard composting project.
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 Osage County have?
Osage County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 10% sand, 58% silt, and 29% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Osage County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Osage County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Osage County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Osage County.
What crops or plants grow well in Osage County's soil?
Based on Osage County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.1, 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 Osage County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Osage County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Osage County
Soil Verdict
Osage 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
Osage County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Osage 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.