Sheridan County Soil Data
Sheridan County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.4
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Sheridan County, Kansas
Alkaline Soils of the High Plains
Sheridan County soils are notably alkaline with an average pH of 7.40, which is higher than the national median of 6.5. This elevated pH can influence which minerals plants can easily absorb from the ground. The county's overall soil score of 44.2 reflects the unique challenges of this semi-arid region.
Loamy Texture for Easy Workability
The soil consists of 49.8% silt, 29.8% sand, and 19.2% clay. This mixture provides a medium texture that is relatively easy to till and manage for large-scale farming. The moderate sand content helps prevent the soil from becoming too compacted under heavy machinery.
Resourceful Management of Leaner Organic Matter
Organic matter stands at 1.91%, falling below the Kansas state average of 2.22%. Despite this lower organic wealth, the soil maintains a decent available water capacity of 0.177 in/in. Careful management is required to maintain productivity in these thinner High Plains soils.
Natural Drainage in a Dry Climate
Though formal drainage data is not listed, the significant silt and sand percentages suggest naturally porous conditions. Water typically moves through these profiles without long periods of saturation. This characteristic is vital for preventing salt buildup in more alkaline environments.
Resilient Growing in Zone 6a
Sheridan County sits in Hardiness Zone 6a, requiring plants that can handle cold winters and dry summers. Drought-tolerant crops like wheat and grain sorghum thrive in this specific soil and climate combination. Gardeners should focus on native species and alkaline-tolerant vegetables for the best results.
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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Sheridan County have?
Sheridan County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 50% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Sheridan County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Sheridan 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 Sheridan County?
Sheridan 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 Sheridan County's soil?
Based on Sheridan County's Silt loam texture, pH of 7.4, 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 Sheridan County?
Sheridan 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Sheridan County
Soil Verdict
Sheridan 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
Sheridan County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Sheridan 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.