Stanton County Soil Data
Stanton County, Kansas
Avg pH
7.5
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Stanton County, Kansas
Alkaline Entisols of the Southwest
Stanton County features Entisols with a high average pH of 7.49, reflecting the arid conditions of southwest Kansas. These soils are relatively young in geological terms and lack the deep development of eastern prairie soils. The soil score of 33.4 is among the lowest in the state.
Sandy Loam for Light Management
The dominant texture is sandy loam, composed of 40.5% sand, 39.4% silt, and 20.2% clay. This mix provides a balance of drainage and structure that is easy to manage under irrigation. However, it is prone to wind erosion if left without a cover crop.
Conserving Moisture in Lean Soils
Organic matter is low at 1.38%, which is nearly a full percentage point below the Kansas state average. Available water capacity is also modest at 0.170 in/in. These factors mean that soil health and moisture conservation are top priorities for local land managers.
Well-Drained with High Runoff Risk
The soil is classified as well-drained but falls into hydrologic group D, which indicates a high runoff potential when the ground is saturated. This paradox means that while water moves through the profile well, the surface can shed water during intense storms. Managed drainage is key for both building and farming here.
Dryland Resilience in Zone 6b
The Zone 6b climate in Stanton County is best suited for resilient, deep-rooted crops and native shrubs. High-pH tolerant vegetables like beans and kale can do well if provided with consistent supplemental water. Focus on building organic matter to improve your garden's chances of success.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Stanton County have?
Stanton County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 39% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Stanton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Stanton County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Stanton County?
Stanton 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 Stanton County's soil?
Based on Stanton County's Sandy 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 Stanton County?
Stanton County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
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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.