Hot Spring County Soil Data
Hot Spring County, Arkansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Hot Spring County, Arkansas
Gritty, Acidic Soils of the Ouachitas
Hot Spring County soil has a pH of 5.39, putting it on the more acidic side of the state average. This level is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5, requiring lime for most traditional garden crops. The soil reflects the complex mineral history of the surrounding mountains.
High Sand Content for Drainage
The soil composition is 51.6% sand, 34.4% silt, and 14.0% clay. This high sand percentage ensures the soil is easy to till and doesn't become overly compacted. However, with less clay, the soil relies heavily on its silt and organic matter to hold onto essential nutrients.
Moderate Water Capacity and Low Score
Available water capacity is 0.135 in/in, slightly below the state average, while organic matter is low at 1.58%. These factors contribute to a soil score of 23.6. Growers should focus on intensive soil building to overcome the natural lack of organic materials.
Slow Infiltration in Group D
Despite the sandy texture, the soil is categorized under hydrologic group D, indicating slow infiltration when wet. While specific drainage classes aren't provided, this suggests potential runoff issues during heavy Arkansas storms. Proper grading is essential for any local construction or landscaping project.
Long Growing Seasons in Zone 8a
The 8a hardiness zone provides ample warmth for heat-loving crops like okra and peppers. The sandy soil is a boon for root crops, which can expand easily in the loose texture. Enriching the ground with compost will yield impressive results in this long-season climate.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Hot Spring County have?
Hot Spring County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 34% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hot Spring County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hot Spring 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 Hot Spring County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hot Spring County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hot Spring County's soil?
Based on Hot Spring County's 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 Hot Spring County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Hot Spring County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Hot Spring County
Soil Verdict
Hot Spring County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Hot Spring County closely matches the Arkansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hot Spring 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.