Pottawatomie County Soil Data
Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma
Avg pH
6.0
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma
Rich Mollisols Define the Landscape
Pottawatomie County features Mollisols, which are typically fertile, dark soils, with an average pH of 5.95. This is just slightly below the Oklahoma average of 6.06 and notably lower than the 6.5 national median. These soils are historically productive but may need lime to optimize nutrient availability for some crops.
Silty Clay Loam Textures
The soil is a silty clay loam, characterized by 45.6% sand, 28.1% silt, and 16.7% clay. This mix provides a stable structure that is moderately easy to work while maintaining some moisture-holding clay. It strikes a functional balance between the sandiness of the west and the clays of the east.
Moderate Fertility and Water Capacity
Organic matter content stands at 1.33%, which is below the state average of 1.72%. The available water capacity of 0.143 in/in is almost identical to the state average of 0.144 in/in. This suggests that while carbon levels are lower, the soil's ability to hold water for crops is standard for Oklahoma.
Moderately Well Drained Foundations
The dominant soil is 'moderately well drained' and belongs to hydrologic group C. This indicates that while infiltration is somewhat slow, it is more permeable than the 'D' group soils found in neighboring counties. This makes it a bit more forgiving for gardening and small-scale construction.
Vibrant Growth in Zone 7b
The 7b hardiness zone and Mollisol heritage support a wide range of agricultural activities, from pecans to commercial vegetables. The soil score of 33.5 is near the state average, indicating reliable but not exceptional productivity. Home gardeners can thrive here by adding organic compost to boost the low OM levels.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pottawatomie County have?
Pottawatomie County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 28% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pottawatomie County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pottawatomie 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 Pottawatomie County?
Pottawatomie County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Pottawatomie County's soil?
Based on Pottawatomie County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.0, and Moderately well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Pottawatomie County?
Pottawatomie County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
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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.