Osage County Soil Data
Osage County, Oklahoma
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Water
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Osage County, Oklahoma
Acidic Profiles Across the Osage
The county's average pH of 5.96 sits below both the state average of 6.06 and the national median of 6.5. This moderately acidic profile defines the landscape and requires lime for sensitive crops. Local surveys categorize much of the dominant texture as water-influenced, suggesting high riverine or wetland interaction.
A Silty Foundation for Tribal Lands
The soil contains a high silt concentration of 42.1% paired with 31.9% sand and 18.3% clay. This silty mix offers a smoother feel than sandier neighbors, providing a decent balance between workability and structural stability. It holds onto nutrients better than pure sand but lacks the density of high-clay regions.
Solid Water Retention Despite Lower Carbon
Organic matter levels reach 1.64%, slightly trailing the Oklahoma state average of 1.72%. However, the available water capacity of 0.156 in/in outperforms the state benchmark of 0.144 in/in. This means the soil is surprisingly effective at storing moisture for plants during dry spells.
High Runoff Potential in Group D
Classified in hydrologic group D, these soils generally experience slow infiltration and high runoff rates when saturated. This makes the terrain prone to ponding during heavy Oklahoma thunderstorms. Builders and farmers must plan carefully for surface water management to avoid erosion.
Gardening in Hardiness Zone 7a
Osage County falls within USDA hardiness zone 7a, perfect for heat-tolerant vegetables and native grasses. The combination of high water capacity and 7a temperatures supports robust cattle grazing and summer gardens. Grab a spade and start your vegetable plot this spring.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 6.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Osage County have?
Osage County's soil is classified as Water. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 42% silt, and 18% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Osage County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Osage County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Osage County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Osage County.
What crops or plants grow well in Osage County's soil?
Based on Osage County's Water texture, pH of 6.0, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Osage County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Osage County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Osage County
Soil Verdict
Osage 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
Osage County closely matches the Oklahoma average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 7a-7b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Osage 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.