Harding County Soil Data

Harding County, New Mexico

Avg 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

Loam
Sand: 48.7%
Silt: 29.2%
Clay: 20.4%
Loam

Soil pH

7.4pH
7.39178016028888
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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.

Runoff potential:High

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently 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.

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.