Benton County Soil Data
Benton County, Arkansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
10.3%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Benton County, Arkansas
Rich Loam Foundations in Benton
Benton County features high-quality loam soils categorized as Ultisols. The pH level of 5.55 matches the state average almost exactly but remains a full point below the national median of 6.5. These soils provide a stable, productive base that has historically supported diverse agricultural ventures.
The Ideal Textural Balance
With 48.4% silt, 24.2% sand, and 15.1% clay, this soil hits a 'sweet spot' for workability and nutrient retention. The loamy texture is easy to till and provides an excellent environment for root development. It resists the extreme compaction of clay-heavy soils while offering better structure than pure sand.
High Carbon for Healthy Crops
Benton County boasts an impressive 10.34% organic matter, more than double the Arkansas average of 4.15%. While its water capacity of 0.136 in/in is slightly below the state average, the high organic content supports a thriving microbial community. This fertility profile is a major reason why the county's soil score is a top-tier 50.0.
Stable Drainage for Diverse Use
The soil is moderately well drained and falls into hydrologic group C. This indicates that while the soil manages water well, it may saturate during sustained heavy rain. It is a reliable choice for suburban landscaping and farming, provided there is adequate surface runoff management.
Garden Capital of Zone 7a
In Hardiness Zone 7a, Benton County is perfect for everything from cool-weather greens to summer tomatoes. The exceptional soil score of 50.0 is the highest in this group, reflecting superior growing potential. Whether you are planting a small raised bed or a large orchard, these soils are some of the best in the state.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Benton County have?
Benton County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 48% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Benton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Benton County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Benton County?
Benton 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 Benton County's soil?
Based on Benton County's Loam texture, pH of 5.6, 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 Benton County?
Benton County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Benton County
Soil Verdict
Benton 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
Benton County is somewhat cooler than the Arkansas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Benton County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Arkansas
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.