Franklin County Soil Data
Franklin County, Washington
Avg pH
7.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Franklin County, Washington
Alkaline Soils of the Columbia Basin
Franklin County soils have an average pH of 7.21, making them more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile is significantly higher than the Washington state average of 6.20.
Fine Texture and Low Clay
The soil features a balanced mix of 48.1% sand and 42.4% silt, providing a stable structure for irrigation. With a very low clay content of 7.2%, the soil stays loose and resists the heavy crusting found in other regions.
Resource Management for Arid Land
Organic matter is relatively low at 1.11%, trailing the national average of 2.0%. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.159 in/in, this soil requires careful organic amendments and managed watering to reach its full potential.
Free-Draining Agricultural Land
Although specific drainage classes are not listed, the high sand and silt content ensures that water moves freely through the profile. This characteristic prevents root rot and makes the land ideal for precision-irrigated crops.
Abundant Growth in Zone 7a
This county is a powerhouse for potatoes, onions, and grapes thanks to its long growing season. Use the workable, alkaline soil to your advantage and plant a vegetable garden that loves the summer heat.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Franklin County have?
Franklin County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 42% silt, and 7% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Franklin County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Franklin County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Franklin County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Franklin County.
What crops or plants grow well in Franklin County's soil?
Based on Franklin County's Loam texture, pH of 7.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Franklin County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Franklin County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Franklin County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Washington
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.