Faulkner County Soil Data
Faulkner County, Arkansas
Avg pH
5.7
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Faulkner County, Arkansas
Alfisols and acidic silty loams
Faulkner County is dominated by Alfisols with an average pH of 5.66. This is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.56 but still falls below the national median of 6.5. These soils are naturally productive but often require management to address their inherent acidity.
A balanced silty clay loam
The dominant texture is silty clay loam, composed of 41.3% silt, 39.9% sand, and 18.7% clay. This specific ratio provides a good balance between workability and nutrient retention. It offers a more structured profile than the sandier soils found to the west.
Solid water capacity for central Arkansas
Available water capacity stands at 0.153 in/in, which is slightly better than the state average of 0.148 in/in. Organic matter is 1.75%, which is modest compared to the 4.15% state average. Regular additions of organic mulch can help improve these soils for intensive gardening.
Well-drained land with runoff risks
Faulkner's soils are classified as well-drained, yet they belong to hydrologic group D. This paradox means that while water moves through the profile well, the surface has a high potential for runoff during intense storms. This makes the county excellent for various uses, provided erosion is controlled.
Versatile gardening in zone 8a
Residing in hardiness zone 8a, Faulkner County supports a diverse array of garden plants and ornamental trees. The silty clay loam is an excellent medium for roses, fruit trees, and summer vegetables. With the right amendments, you can transform this reliable soil into a thriving oasis.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Faulkner County have?
Faulkner County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 41% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Faulkner County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Faulkner 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 Faulkner County?
Faulkner 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 Faulkner County's soil?
Based on Faulkner County's Silty clay 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 Faulkner County?
Faulkner County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Faulkner 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.