Garland County Soil Data
Garland County, Arkansas
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Very gravelly silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Garland County, Arkansas
Highly Acidic Very Gravelly Loams
Garland County is dominated by Ultisols with a low pH of 5.34. This is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and falls below the Arkansas average of 5.56. These 'very gravelly silt loams' define the rugged, weathered character of the local terrain.
Silty Texture with Significant Gravel
The soil mix includes 38.6% sand and 44.4% silt, with a clay fraction of 16.9%. While the silt provides good nutrient retention, the high gravel content can make mechanical tilling a challenge. This texture allows for moderate drainage while maintaining enough clay for structure.
Low Organic Matter Challenges Growers
With an organic matter content of just 1.46%, Garland falls far short of the state average of 4.15%. The available water capacity of 0.127 in/in also trails the state benchmark of 0.148. This contributes to a relatively low soil score of 18.2, indicating a need for heavy composting and amendments.
Reliable Drainage in Group C
Garland’s soils are classified as well drained and belong to hydrologic group C. This ensures that even with low water capacity, the land does not stay waterlogged after heavy Ozark rains. It is a stable profile for building, though gardeners must monitor moisture levels closely.
Gardening in Hardiness Zone 8a
The warm 8a climate allows for a long growing season for heat-loving plants like peppers and tomatoes. Because organic matter is low, success depends on adding mulch and organic fertilizers. Your garden will thrive if you focus on building up the soil’s natural biology.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Very gravelly silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Garland County have?
Garland County's soil is classified as Very gravelly silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 39% sand, 44% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Garland County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Garland County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Garland County?
Garland 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 Garland County's soil?
Based on Garland County's Very gravelly silt loam texture, pH of 5.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Garland County?
Garland 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Garland 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.