Wallace County Soil Data
Wallace County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.6
Texture
Loamy sand
Drainage
Somewhat excessively drained
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Wallace County, Kansas
Alkaline Sands of the West
Wallace County features loamy sand from the Entisol order, reflecting its rugged, young soil profile. The average pH is 7.60, which is much higher than the national average of 6.5. This alkaline nature is typical for the drier, lime-rich environments of western Kansas.
Gritty Texture and High Porosity
With 29.1% sand and 47.9% silt, this soil is grittier than many other Kansas varieties. The 23.0% clay content provides just enough binding to help the soil maintain its shape. This texture allows for excellent aeration, making it easy for plant roots to breathe.
Consistent Water Storage Potential
Organic matter is lower than the state average at 1.79%, suggesting a need for compost or cover crops in home gardens. However, the available water capacity is exactly the state average of 0.180 in/in. This ensures that whatever rain does fall is stored effectively for plant use.
Efficient Drainage for Building
The soil is somewhat excessively drained and belongs to hydrologic group A. These characteristics mean water moves quickly through the ground, significantly reducing the risk of flooding or pooling. This makes the land excellent for construction and deep-rooted agriculture.
Tough Plants for Zone 6a
In hardiness zone 6a, focus on plants that can handle intense sun and alkaline sand. Succulents, native prairie grasses, and drought-hardy shrubs will thrive in this environment. Your garden can become a beautiful, low-maintenance oasis with the right native species.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Somewhat excessively drained
Water is removed rapidly. Soils may be droughty and have limited water-holding capacity.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loamy sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Alkaline Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 7.6. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Wallace County have?
Wallace County's soil is classified as Loamy sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 48% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Wallace County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Wallace County's soil has a pH of 7.6, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Wallace County?
Wallace County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Wallace County's soil?
Based on Wallace County's Loamy sand texture, pH of 7.6, and Somewhat excessively drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Wallace County?
Wallace 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Wallace County
Soil Verdict
Wallace 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
Wallace County closely matches the Kansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Wallace 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.