Jackson County Soil Data
Jackson County, Arkansas
Avg pH
5.6
Texture
Stony silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Jackson County, Arkansas
The Ultisols of Jackson County
Jackson County is defined by Ultisols, which are highly weathered forest soils with an average pH of 5.59. This acidity level is nearly identical to the Arkansas state average but remains more acidic than the national 6.5 median. The dominant stony silt loam texture provides a unique physical structure for the region's landscape.
Silt-Heavy Soil Profiles
The soil composition is dominated by silt at 50.3%, supported by 32.4% sand and 17.3% clay. This high silt concentration creates a smooth texture that offers excellent workability but can be prone to erosion if left uncovered. The clay fraction is high enough to help retain nutrients without making the soil too heavy to plow.
High Water Retention Capacity
Available water capacity in Jackson County is a strong 0.173 in/in, outperforming the state average of 0.148 in/in. However, organic matter is low at 1.61%, which falls below both the national 2.0% and state 4.15% benchmarks. Improving soil health through cover cropping can help boost these low organic levels over time.
Well-Drained but Challenging Hydrology
The county's soils are primarily classified as well-drained, which is excellent for most agricultural uses and building foundations. However, the hydrologic group D classification suggests that when the soil is saturated, it has a high runoff potential. Proper drainage management is essential to prevent water from pooling during heavy Arkansas rains.
Abundant Growth in Zone 8a
Falling within Hardiness Zone 8a, this county supports a long growing season for heat-tolerant crops like cotton and soybeans. Gardeners will find success with peppers, okra, and tomatoes, provided they supplement the soil with organic compost. It is a fantastic environment for anyone looking to establish a productive home orchard.
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: Stony silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Jackson County have?
Jackson County's soil is classified as Stony silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 50% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jackson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jackson County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Jackson County?
Jackson 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 Jackson County's soil?
Based on Jackson County's Stony silt loam texture, pH of 5.6, 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 Jackson County?
Jackson 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.
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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.