Cimarron County Soil Data
Cimarron County, Oklahoma
Avg pH
6.8
Texture
Variable
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.0%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Cimarron County, Oklahoma
Alkaline soils in the high plains
Cimarron County stands out with an average pH of 6.84, which is significantly more alkaline than the state average of 6.06. This pH is even higher than the national median of 6.5, reflecting the arid conditions of the Oklahoma Panhandle. The soil score of 29.2 is lower than the state average, pointing to the environmental challenges of the region.
Sandy soils with variable texture
The soil is dominated by 46.9% sand, with only 17.6% clay and 24.4% silt. This high sand content leads to a loose, well-aerated texture that is easy to work but susceptible to wind erosion. The 'variable' dominant texture classification reflects the diverse landscape of the High Plains.
Low organic matter and water capacity
Organic matter is just 1.05%, which is much lower than the national 2.0% average and the 1.72% state average. Available water capacity is also low at 0.125 in/in, meaning the soil does not hold onto moisture for long. Frequent irrigation or specialized dryland farming techniques are required to sustain crops here.
Slow infiltration in an arid climate
Despite the sandy texture, the soil is categorized in Hydrologic Group D, indicating slow infiltration during saturated conditions. In this arid climate, when rain does fall, it often comes in heavy bursts that the soil cannot immediately absorb. This leads to runoff and potential erosion of the valuable topsoil.
Hardy gardening in zone 6b
The 6b hardiness zone means shorter growing seasons and colder winters than the rest of the state. Gardeners should focus on drought-tolerant species and plants that can handle alkaline soils, such as lavender or certain native grasses. Windbreaks and mulching are essential strategies to protect your garden in this rugged environment.
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: Variable
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cimarron County have?
Cimarron County's soil is classified as Variable. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 47% sand, 24% silt, and 18% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Cimarron County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cimarron County's soil has a pH of 6.8, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Cimarron County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cimarron County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cimarron County's soil?
Based on Cimarron County's Variable texture, pH of 6.8, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Cimarron County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cimarron County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cimarron County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Oklahoma
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.