Carroll County Soil Data
Carroll County, Arkansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
16.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Carroll County, Arkansas
The Acidic Highlands of Carroll County
Carroll County's soil is notably acidic, with an average pH of 5.24 compared to the national median of 6.5. This level is also lower than the Arkansas state average of 5.56, which can impact the availability of nutrients like phosphorus. Most local growers will need to apply lime regularly to maintain a healthy garden.
A Balanced Silt and Sand Mix
The soil composition is nearly even between silt (33.8%) and sand (33.1%), providing a texture that is generally easy to work. With only 12.3% clay, the soil won't be overly heavy or sticky, allowing for good aeration for plant roots. This balance makes it a versatile medium for many different types of vegetation.
Rich in Carbon, Low in Storage
Carroll County features an impressive 16.20% organic matter, which is nearly four times the state average. Despite this richness, the available water capacity is quite low at 0.108 in/in, meaning the soil doesn't hold onto moisture well. Frequent watering or heavy mulching is necessary to keep your plants hydrated during the summer.
Unique Drainage in the Ozarks
The dominant drainage is classified as subaqueous, which is unusual for upland areas and suggests data collection near water bodies or saturated depressions. This classification means you should carefully check your specific site for signs of seasonal flooding or poor drainage. In the Ozarks, soil depth can also vary greatly, impacting how water moves through the landscape.
Four-Season Potential in Zone 7a
Located in Hardiness Zone 7a, Carroll County supports a diverse range of crops from berries to hardy winter greens. The county's soil score of 39.8 is better than the state average, indicating strong natural potential. With its high organic matter, this soil is a fantastic starting point for any organic gardener.
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 5.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Carroll County have?
Carroll County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 34% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Carroll County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Carroll County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Carroll County?
Carroll 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 Carroll County's soil?
Based on Carroll County's Loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Carroll County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Carroll County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Carroll County
Soil Verdict
Carroll 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
Carroll 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 Carroll 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.