Colfax County Soil Data
Colfax County, New Mexico
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Colfax County, New Mexico
Near-Neutral Mountain Soils
Colfax soils feature a pH of 7.06, which is remarkably close to neutral compared to the state average of 7.48. This makes it more hospitable to a wider variety of plants than many neighboring counties.
A Balanced Loamy Mix
The soil contains 40.2% sand, 35.0% silt, and 22.4% clay. This balanced composition offers a good compromise between easy workability and the ability to hold onto vital nutrients.
High Organic Matter Leads
At 1.93%, the organic matter content is nearly double the state average and approaches the national benchmark of 2.0%. The water capacity of 0.135 in/in also beats the state average, signaling high growing potential.
Water-Retentive and Heavy
The soil is classified as 'Very poorly drained' and belongs to Hydrologic Group D. This means water moves slowly through the profile, making it prone to saturation during wet spells.
Diverse Options for Zone 6a
This moisture-retentive, fertile soil is perfect for forage crops and hardy berries in Zone 6a. Start a garden today with confidence, as your soil holds more life-giving organic matter than most of New Mexico.
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
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: 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 Colfax County have?
Colfax County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 35% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Colfax County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Colfax County's soil has a pH of 7.1, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Colfax County?
Colfax County has a dominant drainage class of "Very poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Colfax County's soil?
Based on Colfax County's Loam texture, pH of 7.1, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Colfax County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Colfax County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Colfax County
Soil Verdict
Colfax 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
Colfax County is somewhat cooler than the New Mexico statewide average. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Colfax County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in New Mexico
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.