Ellis County Soil Data
Ellis County, Oklahoma
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.1
Texture
Water
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Ellis County, Oklahoma
The Sweetest Soils in the Region
Ellis County features the most alkaline soil in this group with a pH of 7.11, notably higher than the national median of 6.5. This 'sweet' soil stands out compared to the typically acidic Oklahoma state average of 6.06.
Sandy Profiles Drain Rapidly
With 57.4% sand and only 13.1% clay, this soil is gritty and loose. It drains very rapidly and warms up quickly in the spring, though it can struggle to hold onto essential nutrients over time.
Sparse Organic Matter and Water Storage
Organic matter is relatively sparse at 1.15%, compared to the state average of 1.72%. The available water capacity is also low at 0.127 in/in, suggesting a strong need for mulching to retain moisture.
Unique Runoff and Infiltration Mix
The county is classified in Hydrologic Group D, which typically indicates high runoff potential. However, the high sand percentage helps water move, requiring gardeners to watch for unpredictable water behavior during storms.
Hardy Herbs and Natives in Zone 7a
Hardiness Zone 7a is perfect for growing heat-loving herbs like lavender and rosemary. Despite a lower soil score of 25.5, patient gardeners can thrive by focusing on native species adapted to these sandy conditions.
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: Water
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 Ellis County have?
Ellis County's soil is classified as Water. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 25% silt, and 13% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Ellis County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ellis 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 Ellis County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Ellis County.
What crops or plants grow well in Ellis County's soil?
Based on Ellis County's Water texture, pH of 7.1, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses.
What USDA soil order is found in Ellis County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Ellis County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Ellis County
Soil Verdict
Ellis County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Ellis County closely matches the Oklahoma average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ellis 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.