Pike County Soil Data
Pike County, Arkansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Stony loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Pike County, Arkansas
Stony Alfisols of the uplands
Pike County features Alfisols, a taxonomic order known for being naturally fertile and found primarily in humid regions. The average pH is 5.50, which is acidic compared to the national median of 6.5 but typical for the state. With a soil score of 29.4, these soils provide a solid foundation for both forestry and local agriculture.
Stony loam offers unique texture
The dominant texture is stony loam, characterized by 48.3% sand and 36.5% silt. The presence of stones and 15.0% clay creates a soil that is well-aerated but can be physically challenging to till. This mix is ideal for deep-rooted plants that can navigate around the rocky fragments to find nutrients.
Moderate moisture and organic matter
At 1.71%, organic matter in Pike County is slightly below the national average and trails the Arkansas state average of 4.15%. The available water capacity is 0.139 in/in, which is just below the state benchmark of 0.148. Gardeners should focus on adding organic amendments to improve the soil's ability to support thirsty plants.
Reliable drainage in Group C
Pike County's soil is classified as well-drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group C. This group has a slow infiltration rate when wet but generally prevents water from ponding on the surface. These conditions are excellent for preventing root rot and provide a stable base for various construction projects.
Thriving in Zone 8a
In Hardiness Zone 8a, Pike County is well-suited for heat-hardy vegetables and native Ozark flora. Fruit trees like peaches and plums often do well in these well-drained, stony loams. If you're looking to start a garden, focusing on hardy perennials will yield the best results with the local soil structure.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
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 loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pike County have?
Pike County's soil is classified as Stony loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 36% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pike County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pike County's soil has a low pH of 5.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Pike County?
Pike 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 Pike County's soil?
Based on Pike County's Stony loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Pike County?
Pike County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pike County
Soil Verdict
Pike 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
Pike County closely matches the Arkansas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pike 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.