Pottawatomie County Soil Data
Pottawatomie County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.7
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pottawatomie County, Kansas
Balanced Soils in Pottawatomie
Pottawatomie County features an average pH of 6.73, which is almost perfectly aligned with the Kansas state average of 6.80. This near-ideal level is just above the national median of 6.5, making it suitable for a diverse range of plant life. These soils provide an excellent chemical baseline for high agricultural productivity.
Silty Loam Characteristics
With a composition of 51.1% silt, 26.0% sand, and 22.9% clay, these soils offer a high-quality structure. The significant silt and clay portions provide excellent nutrient cation exchange sites. This mixture prevents the rapid leaching of fertilizers, keeping nutrients available for crop uptake.
Superior Organic Matter Levels
The county boasts an organic matter content of 2.47%, significantly higher than both the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 2.22%. Available water capacity also exceeds the state norm at 0.184 in/in. These metrics explain the county's strong soil score of 62.5, which is well above the Kansas average.
Effective Moisture Management
Regional drainage class data is unavailable, but the high soil score suggests efficient natural processes. The combination of high organic matter and balanced silt helps manage moisture levels effectively across varying topographies. These soils generally provide stable foundations for both agriculture and construction.
Premium Growth in Zone 6a
Pottawatomie County's Zone 6a climate and high-quality soil make it a premier location for fruit trees and vegetables. The superior organic matter levels provide a natural boost for any garden or farm plot. It is a fantastic environment to start a hobby farm or expand a commercial operation.
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 Pottawatomie County have?
Pottawatomie County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 51% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pottawatomie County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pottawatomie County's soil has a pH of 6.7, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Pottawatomie County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pottawatomie County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pottawatomie County's soil?
Based on Pottawatomie County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.7, 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 Pottawatomie County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pottawatomie County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pottawatomie County
Soil Verdict
Pottawatomie 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
Pottawatomie 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 Pottawatomie 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.