Sedgwick County Soil Data

Sedgwick County, Kansas

Avg pH

6.5

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

1.9%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Sedgwick County, Kansas

Neutral Soils in the Heart of Kansas

Sedgwick County features an average pH of 6.48, which is virtually identical to the national median of 6.5. This slightly acidic profile is lower than the Kansas state average of 6.80, making it very versatile for agriculture. The county earns a solid soil score of 60.7, indicating good overall quality.

A Gritty, Versatile Mix

The soil contains 35.1% sand, 43.3% silt, and 21.1% clay, offering a more balanced and workable texture than heavy clay regions. The higher sand content helps with drainage, while the silt and clay provide necessary nutrient binding. This mix is ideal for the varied needs of both urban Wichita and surrounding farms.

Fertility Near the National Average

Organic matter is 1.95%, hovering just below the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 2.22%. The available water capacity of 0.173 in/in is slightly under the Kansas average of 0.180 in/in. This suggests that while the soil is productive, it benefits from consistent irrigation and soil health management.

Efficient Drainage for Urban Growth

While specific drainage and taxonomic classifications are not recorded here, the 35.1% sand content suggests generally efficient drainage. This is beneficial for building foundations and reducing runoff in urbanized areas like Wichita. Always confirm local hydrology for specific farm or garden plots to ensure proper water management.

Lush Landscapes in Zone 7a

As one of the warmer regions in Kansas, Sedgwick County falls into Hardiness Zone 7a. This allows for a longer growing season for warm-weather crops like okra, sweet potatoes, and zinnias. The neutral pH makes it easy to maintain a beautiful lawn or a high-yielding vegetable garden.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 35.1%
Silt: 43.3%
Clay: 21.1%
Loam

Soil pH

6.5pH
6.48119487012972
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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: Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Sedgwick County have?

Sedgwick County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 43% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Sedgwick County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Sedgwick County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Sedgwick County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Sedgwick County.

What crops or plants grow well in Sedgwick County's soil?

Based on Sedgwick County's Loam texture, pH of 6.5, 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 Sedgwick County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Sedgwick County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.