Harding County Soil Data
Harding County, New Mexico
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Harding County, New Mexico
Top-Tier State Soil
Harding County boasts a 29.4 soil score, significantly outperforming the state average of 22.2. Its pH of 7.39 is slightly more acidic than the state average, though still more alkaline than the 6.5 national median.
Balanced Loam Potential
A balanced mix of 48.7% sand and 20.4% clay creates a versatile structure for plant roots. This composition allows for better nutrient holding and workability than sandier regions to the south.
New Mexico's Fertile Grounds
At 1.52% organic matter, this soil is among the most fertile in the state, exceeding the 1.27% New Mexico average. High water capacity of 0.142 in/in ensures plants stay hydrated between summer rains.
Managing High Runoff
Belonging to Hydrologic Group D, the soil exhibits high runoff potential when it becomes fully saturated. Proper land grading and contouring are essential to manage water flow on these northeastern plains.
Greenery in Zone 6b
Residents in Hardiness Zone 6b can grow cool-season greens and sturdy root crops. The relatively high organic matter makes this a prime spot for a thriving and productive home garden.
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
Drainage class data not available.
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 Harding County have?
Harding County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 49% sand, 29% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Harding County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Harding 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 Harding County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Harding County.
What crops or plants grow well in Harding County's soil?
Based on Harding County's Loam texture, pH of 7.4, 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 Harding County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Harding County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Harding County
Soil Verdict
Harding County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Harding County is somewhat cooler than the New Mexico statewide average. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Harding 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.