Smith County Soil Data
Smith County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.2
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Smith County, Kansas
Productive Alkaline Soils in North Central Kansas
Smith County features an average pH of 7.23, which is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This pH level is common in the region and supports the local prairie ecology. The overall soil score of 52.7 is just slightly below the Kansas state average.
Silt-Heavy Mix with High Workability
With 55.6% silt and 24.2% clay, the soil has a fine, silty texture that is conducive to farming. Sand makes up only 20.2% of the profile, meaning the soil retains moisture better than many western counties. This balance provides a stable foundation for the county's agricultural heartland.
Strong Water Storage Capabilities
The soil provides an available water capacity of 0.190 in/in, outperforming the state average of 0.180 in/in. Organic matter content is 2.04%, which is solid but slightly under the state benchmark of 2.22%. This combination allows for decent nutrient cycling and drought resistance.
Reliable Moisture Management
While specific drainage data is unavailable, the high silt and clay content suggests the soil holds water effectively. This is beneficial for dryland farming where every inch of rain counts for the harvest. Proper tillage practices help ensure that moisture reaches deep into the root zone.
Garden Success in Zone 6a
Hardiness Zone 6a means Smith County gardeners can grow a wide range of hardy vegetables and native sunflowers. The silty soil is excellent for root crops like carrots if kept consistently moist. With a little extra compost, your garden will thrive in this fertile landscape.
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 Smith County have?
Smith County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 56% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Smith County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Smith County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Smith County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Smith County.
What crops or plants grow well in Smith County's soil?
Based on Smith County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 7.2, 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 Smith County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Smith County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Smith County
Soil Verdict
Smith 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
Smith County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Smith 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.