Desha County Soil Data
Desha County, Arkansas
Avg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Desha County, Arkansas
High-performing soils with neutral pH
Desha County earns an impressive soil score of 58.3, far exceeding the state average of 37.7. The average pH of 6.30 is nearly optimal, sitting just below the national median of 6.5. This chemical balance supports high nutrient availability for most commercial and garden plants.
Heavy textures for maximum retention
The soil is a heavy mix of 52.4% silt and 34.3% clay, with only 13.3% sand. This composition creates a dense, nutrient-rich environment that excels at holding onto fertilizers. While it can be heavy to dig, the high clay content provides an excellent structural base for crops.
Superior moisture holding capacity
The available water capacity of 0.181 in/in is well above the state average of 0.148 in/in. Organic matter sits at 1.96%, providing a solid foundation for soil life. These factors combine to create a highly fertile environment that withstands dry Arkansas summers better than neighboring regions.
Managing water in delta soils
While specific drainage classes are not listed, the high silt and clay content indicates slow natural drainage. This soil is prone to holding water, which is a benefit for rice production but a challenge for building foundations. Proper grading is essential to manage moisture effectively on this land.
Extended growing in zone 8b
Desha County is in hardiness zone 8b, the warmest zone in this group. This allows for an exceptionally long growing season and the potential for overwintering many semi-hardy plants. The rich, heavy soil is perfect for producing high yields of okra, melons, and sweet potatoes.
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Desha County have?
Desha County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 13% sand, 52% silt, and 34% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Desha County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Desha County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Desha County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Desha County.
What crops or plants grow well in Desha County's soil?
Based on Desha County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Desha County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Desha County is not currently available in our dataset.
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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.