Osborne County Soil Data
Osborne 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 Osborne County, Kansas
High pH on the Plains
Osborne County soils have an average pH of 7.39, placing them on the alkaline side of the scale. This level is higher than both the national median of 6.5 and the Kansas state average of 6.80.
Balanced Silty Clay Texture
The soil is made of 55.1% silt and 26.4% clay, with a sand component of 17.7%. This composition provides enough clay for nutrient storage while the silt ensures the soil doesn't become too compacted.
Strong Water Storage Potential
The organic matter content is 2.03%, just below the state average of 2.22%. However, the available water capacity of 0.188 in/in is above the Kansas average, helping crops survive during dry periods.
Consistent Moisture Availability
The above-average water capacity indicates that these soils are effective at capturing and holding onto rainfall. While specific drainage data is missing, the silt-heavy mix usually suggests moderate permeability.
Prairie Resilience in Zone 6a
In hardiness zone 6a, this soil is well-suited for alfalfa and native grasses that tolerate alkaline conditions. It is a fantastic environment for a sustainable garden focused on native Kansas wildflowers.
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 Osborne County have?
Osborne County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 55% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Osborne County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Osborne 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 Osborne County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Osborne County.
What crops or plants grow well in Osborne County's soil?
Based on Osborne 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 Osborne County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Osborne County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Osborne County
Soil Verdict
Osborne 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
Osborne County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Osborne 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.