Payne County Soil Data
Payne County, Oklahoma
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.2
Texture
Water
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Payne County, Oklahoma
Slightly Acidic Soils Near Stillwater
Payne County maintains a pH of 6.16, which is slightly higher and less acidic than the state average of 6.06. This falls just below the national median of 6.5, creating a favorable environment for most agricultural crops. The soil is chemically balanced for the region, minimizing the need for heavy lime applications.
Sandier Profiles for Better Aeration
With a sand content of 43.4% and silt at 33.1%, these soils are coarser than many neighboring counties. The 17.0% clay content is low enough to prevent major compaction issues while still providing some structure. This mix ensures good aeration for plant roots and easier tilling for local farmers.
Moisture Retention Surpasses State Levels
Organic matter levels average 1.53%, trailing the state benchmark of 1.72%. However, the soil compensates with an available water capacity of 0.151 in/in, which is better than the Oklahoma average. This water storage is vital for sustaining crops during the hot, dry summer months.
Slow Infiltration in Hydrologic Group D
The dominant hydrologic group is D, which signifies high runoff potential and slow water movement through the soil profile. Because the soil doesn't absorb water quickly, managed drainage is essential for large-scale gardening or construction. Soil erosion remains a primary concern during the spring rainy season.
Diverse Planting in Zone 7a
Payne County sits in hardiness zone 7a, allowing for a long growing season of approximately 200 days. The sandier soil and 7a climate are perfect for melons, peppers, and native wildflowers. It is an excellent environment for hobbyists looking to start a backyard 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: Water
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Payne County have?
Payne County's soil is classified as Water. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 43% sand, 33% silt, and 17% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Payne County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Payne County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Payne County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Payne County.
What crops or plants grow well in Payne County's soil?
Based on Payne County's Water texture, pH of 6.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Payne County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Payne County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Payne County
Soil Verdict
Payne 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
Payne 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 Payne 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.