Tulsa County Soil Data
Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Variable
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Tulsa County's Naturally Acidic Urban Soils
The average soil pH in Tulsa County is 5.38, which is considerably more acidic than the national median of 6.5. It also sits below the Oklahoma state average of 6.06. This acidic baseline is a defining characteristic of the local landscape and affects choice of ornamental plants.
Equal Parts Silt and Sand
The soil contains 35.5% silt and 33.7% sand, balanced with 17.3% clay. This creates a variable texture that provides decent drainage while maintaining enough structure for urban development. The mixture is generally easy to work, though the acidity remains the primary chemical challenge.
Strong Organic Matter for the Region
At 1.56%, the organic matter content is among the higher levels in this group, though still below the state average of 1.72%. The available water capacity is 0.142 in/in, nearly reaching the state average of 0.144 in/in. These factors contribute to a soil score of 25.3.
Hydrologic Group D Runoff Risks
Classified in Hydrologic Group D, Tulsa's soil is prone to high runoff during the heavy rains common to Northeast Oklahoma. Urban builders must account for this slow infiltration when designing drainage for homes and commercial sites. Rain gardens are an excellent local solution for managing these water patterns.
Vibrant Growing Opportunities in Zone 7b
Tulsa County's Zone 7b climate and acidic soil are perfect for azaleas, dogwoods, and maples. Home gardeners will find success with acid-loving berries and a wide variety of summer vegetables. Regular soil testing and the addition of lime can help those looking to grow more pH-sensitive plants.
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 Tulsa County have?
Tulsa County's soil is classified as Variable. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 36% silt, and 17% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Tulsa County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Tulsa County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Tulsa County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Tulsa County.
What crops or plants grow well in Tulsa County's soil?
Based on Tulsa County's Variable texture, pH of 5.4, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas.
What USDA soil order is found in Tulsa County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Tulsa County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Tulsa 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.