Boone County Soil Data
Boone County, Arkansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
16.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Boone County, Arkansas
The Acidic Highlands of Boone
Boone County soil is notably acidic with a pH of 5.29, which is lower than both the state average and the national median of 6.5. This acidity is typical of the weathered upland soils found across the Ozark Plateau. Adding agricultural lime is standard practice here to unlock nutrients for most garden crops.
Silt and Sand Dominance
The soil composition is a mix of 35.8% silt and 31.7% sand, creating a relatively coarse texture. With only 12.0% clay, the soil lacks the heavy, sticky feel of the delta regions but may struggle to hold onto mobile nutrients like nitrogen. This texture allows for excellent aeration, which is vital for healthy plant roots.
Superior Organic Matter Levels
Boone County features an organic matter content of 16.00%, nearly four times the Arkansas average of 4.15%. However, the available water capacity is low at 0.107 in/in, indicating that the soil does not store moisture effectively for long periods. You will need to supplement with irrigation during the dry summer months to keep plants thriving.
Unique Subaqueous Drainage Patterns
Interestingly, the dominant drainage class is listed as subaqueous, which usually refers to soils that are permanently underwater or in very wet depressions. This suggests that much of the county's measured soil data may come from low-lying areas or near water bodies. Proper site selection is critical here to avoid waterlogged roots.
Mountain Growing in Zone 7b
The county's Hardiness Zone 7b supports a wide range of temperate fruits and vegetables, from peaches to kale. With a soil score of 40.9, the land is more productive than the average Arkansas county. Your high organic matter is a huge asset; just be sure to manage the drainage and acidity for the best harvest.
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
Subaqueous
Drainage class: Subaqueous
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 5.3. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Boone County have?
Boone County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 36% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Boone County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Boone County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Boone County?
Boone County has a dominant drainage class of "Subaqueous." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Boone County's soil?
Based on Boone County's Loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Subaqueous, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Boone County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Boone County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Boone County
Soil Verdict
Boone County is in USDA hardiness zone 7b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 5°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. 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.
Regional Context
Boone County is somewhat cooler than the Arkansas statewide average. 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 Boone 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.