Newton County Soil Data
Newton County, Arkansas
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
10.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Newton County, Arkansas
Highly organic but very acidic
Newton County features a very acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.23, nearly a full point and a half below the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is not specified, the county maintains a soil score of 37.2, which is almost even with the state average. This balance suggests that high nutrient potential offsets the challenging acidity.
A balanced sand and silt mix
The soil consists of 41.6% sand and 32.7% silt, though no dominant texture class is officially assigned. With only 13.4% clay, the soil is less prone to the heavy compaction seen in other parts of Arkansas. This composition provides a breathable environment for plant roots but may require more frequent watering.
Exceptional organic matter levels
Newton County boasts a remarkable 10.20% organic matter content, more than double the state average of 4.15%. This rich carbon store acts as a powerhouse for nutrient exchange, even though the available water capacity is low at 0.104 in/in. This unique combination makes the soil highly fertile but prone to drying out quickly.
Slow infiltration in the Ozarks
Belonging to Hydrologic Group D, these soils have a very slow rate of water infiltration. In the rugged terrain of Newton County, this often leads to rapid runoff during the heavy rains common in the Ozarks. Gardeners on slopes should use terraces or contour planting to keep their high-quality organic matter from washing away.
Cooler growing in Zone 7b
Newton County is slightly cooler than its neighbors, falling into Hardiness Zone 7b. The high organic matter is perfect for heavy feeders like leafy greens, garlic, and berries. If you are ready to garden, the rich soil provides a fantastic foundation for both native ornamentals and vegetable patches.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Newton County have?
Newton County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 42% sand, 33% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Newton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Newton County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Newton County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Newton County.
What crops or plants grow well in Newton County's soil?
Based on Newton County's Loam texture, pH of 5.2, 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 Newton County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Newton County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Newton 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.