Drew County Soil Data
Drew County, Arkansas
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Drew County, Arkansas
Notably acidic soils in Drew County
Drew County features an average pH of 5.39, making it more acidic than the state average of 5.56 and much lower than the national median of 6.5. These levels are common in the timberlands of southern Arkansas. Gardeners usually need to apply significant amounts of lime to grow common vegetables.
Silt-dominated profile for smooth texture
The soil consists of 56.4% silt, 27.0% sand, and 16.6% clay. This high silt content makes the soil feel smooth and easy to cultivate when the moisture level is just right. However, the low sand percentage means it may lack the rapid drainage found in other parts of the state.
High water capacity despite low organic matter
Available water capacity is high at 0.186 in/in, surpassing the state benchmark of 0.148 in/in. Organic matter is lower at 1.52%, trailing the Arkansas average of 4.15%. While the soil holds water effectively, it benefits greatly from the addition of compost or manure to build fertility.
Vulnerable to high runoff rates
The county falls into hydrologic group D, indicating very slow infiltration and high runoff potential. This means that during heavy rain, water is more likely to flow across the surface than soak into the ground. Careful management of surface water is necessary for both farming and landscaping projects.
A tropical touch in zone 8b
Located in hardiness zone 8b, Drew County enjoys mild winters and a long, warm growing season. This climate, paired with water-retentive silt, is perfect for southern favorites like pecans and camellias. Take advantage of the long summers to grow heat-loving crops like field peas and peppers.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Drew County have?
Drew County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 56% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Drew County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Drew County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Drew County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Drew County.
What crops or plants grow well in Drew County's soil?
Based on Drew County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.4, and drainage class, 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 Drew County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Drew County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Drew 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.