Rawlins County Soil Data
Rawlins County, Kansas
Avg pH
7.5
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Rawlins County, Kansas
The Alkaline Mollisols of Rawlins
Rawlins County features Mollisols with an average pH of 7.51, which is notably higher than the state average of 6.80. This alkaline profile is characteristic of the rich, dark grasslands found in the High Plains. These soils are historically famous for their inherent fertility and deep topsoil layers.
Silt Loam Dominance
The soil is a heavy silt loam composed of 61.3% silt, 21.7% clay, and only 16.9% sand. This high silt-to-sand ratio creates a very fine-textured soil with excellent nutrient-holding capacity. It is highly productive but requires careful management to avoid compaction when wet.
Exceptional Water Storage Capacity
Organic matter stands at 2.04%, while the available water capacity is a remarkable 0.206 in/in. This water capacity far exceeds the state average of 0.180, making these soils some of the best in Kansas for dryland farming. The soil effectively stores every drop of rain for future plant use.
Well-Drained Hydrologic Group B
The dominant drainage is classified as 'Well drained' and falls into Hydrologic Group B. This means the soil has a moderate infiltration rate even when thoroughly wetted. It provides an ideal balance of moisture retention without the risk of prolonged saturation.
High Productivity in Zone 6a
In USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, these deep silt loams are perfect for small grains, sunflowers, and native grasses. The high water capacity makes it an ideal spot for a productive home garden that can withstand Kansas heat. Get started with hardy vegetables that love a mineral-rich, alkaline environment.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Rawlins County have?
Rawlins County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 61% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Rawlins County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Rawlins County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Rawlins County?
Rawlins County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Rawlins County's soil?
Based on Rawlins County's Silt loam texture, pH of 7.5, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Rawlins County?
Rawlins County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Rawlins 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.