Clay County Soil Data
Clay County, Arkansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.7
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Clay County, Arkansas
Silt Loam Ultisols in Clay County
Clay County features silt loam soil belonging to the taxonomic order of Ultisols. The pH of 5.69 is slightly less acidic than the state average but remains well below the 6.5 national median. These weathered soils provide a reliable base for the diverse agriculture found in this part of the state.
Silt Dominates the Landscape
Silt dominates the composition at 56.0%, blended with 26.1% sand and 17.9% clay. This silt loam texture provides excellent workability and a smooth feel for gardeners and farmers alike. The high silt content allows for good moisture distribution throughout the root zone.
Superior Water Storage Capacity
Organic matter is low at 1.42% compared to the 4.15% state average, suggesting a need for supplemental fertilization. However, the water capacity of 0.187 in/in significantly outperforms the state average of 0.148 in/in. This ensures that crops remain hydrated even during the hot Arkansas summer months.
Well Drained for Productive Farming
This well-drained soil belongs to Hydrologic Group B, meaning it has a moderate infiltration rate. It moves water effectively through the profile, which reduces the risk of root rot for sensitive plants. This drainage class makes the land ideal for large-scale agriculture and reliable home gardening.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 7b
Zone 7b provides a moderate climate perfect for cool-season greens and sturdy perennials. You can thrive as a gardener here by capitalizing on the excellent water storage of the silt loam. With a soil score of 42.5, Clay County offers some of the more productive ground in the region.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Clay County have?
Clay County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 56% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Clay County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Clay County's soil has a pH of 5.7, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Clay County?
Clay County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Clay County's soil?
Based on Clay County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.7, and 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 Clay County?
Clay 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: Clay County
Soil Verdict
Clay 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
Clay County is somewhat cooler than the Arkansas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Clay 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.