Marion County Soil Data

Marion County, Arkansas

Avg pH

5.4

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

22.6%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Marion County, Arkansas

Acidic Profiles in the Ozarks

Soil in Marion County is quite acidic, recording an average pH of 5.40. This acidity is typical for the region, falling below the Arkansas average of 5.56 and well under the national median of 6.5.

Light and Easy-to-Till Soil

The mineral mix consists of 25.8% sand, 33.3% silt, and 10.4% clay. This composition suggests a soil that is relatively light and easy to till, though it may require organic amendments to boost its structure over time.

Massive Organic Matter Reserves

This county boasts a staggering 22.61% organic matter, dwarfing the state average of 4.15%. However, its available water capacity is low at 0.097 in/in, meaning the soil may dry out quickly despite its rich organic content.

Monitoring Natural Water Drainage

Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unavailable for this county. Gardeners should monitor local spots for standing water, as the low clay content often indicates rapid water movement through the soil.

Resilient Planting in Zone 7b

Marion County resides in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b, offering a climate suited for apples and hardy perennials. With such incredibly high organic matter already present, your garden is just a few seeds away from a thriving season.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 25.8%
Silt: 33.3%
Clay: 10.4%
Loam

Soil pH

5.4pH
5.40199884824181
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

Hydrologic group data not available.

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 Marion County have?

Marion County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 33% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Marion County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Marion 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 Marion County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Marion County.

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

Based on Marion 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 Marion County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Marion 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.