Grant County Soil Data

Grant County, Arkansas

Avg pH

5.1

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

1.8%

Hydrologic Group

D

Data Story

About Soil in Grant County, Arkansas

Strongly Acidic Soils of Central Arkansas

Grant County soil is strongly acidic with a pH of 5.12, well below the national median of 6.5. This low pH limits the availability of several key nutrients like phosphorus and calcium. While taxonomic data is limited here, the chemical profile suggests a highly weathered landscape.

High Sand Content Impacts Retention

Nearly half the soil—49.7%—is composed of sand, leading to a gritty texture. With only 15.5% clay and 34.8% silt, this soil offers excellent workability but risks losing nutrients and water quickly. It is an ideal mix for plants that require high aeration for their roots.

Average Water Retention Despite Low Organic Matter

Grant's organic matter is low at 1.78%, yet its available water capacity of 0.144 in/in is nearly at the state average of 0.148. This suggests the silt and clay particles are working hard to hold onto moisture. However, the overall soil score of 23.6 indicates significant room for improvement via organic additions.

Hydrologic Group D Challenges Drainage

Despite the high sand content, these soils belong to hydrologic group D, which indicates very slow infiltration rates when thoroughly wet. While specific drainage classes aren't listed, this group often poses risks for standing water during heavy storms. Careful site planning is necessary for both gardening and construction.

Warm Seasons in Zone 8a

Grant County sits in zone 8a, offering a robust environment for southern staples like okra and sweet potatoes. The sandy texture is perfect for root vegetables, provided you manage the high acidity. Start a compost pile today to transform these sandy soils into a productive oasis.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 49.7%
Silt: 34.8%
Clay: 15.5%
Loam

Soil pH

5.1pH
5.12321756400314
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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.

Runoff potential:High

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Grant County have?

Grant County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 50% sand, 35% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Grant County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Grant County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.

What is the drainage class for Grant County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Grant County.

What crops or plants grow well in Grant County's soil?

Based on Grant County's Loam texture, pH of 5.1, 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 Grant County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Grant County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.