Sharp County Soil Data
Sharp County, Arkansas
Avg pH
5.6
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
9.2%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Sharp County, Arkansas
Rich Mollisols Characterize Sharp County Soil
Sharp County is distinguished by its Mollisols, a soil order often associated with grasslands and high natural fertility. Its 5.61 pH is more acidic than the national 6.5 benchmark but remains slightly higher than the state average.
Silt Loam Textures Provide Excellent Workability
Dominated by a silt loam texture, the soil contains 39.2% silt and 36.3% sand. This composition ensures the ground is easy to till while the low 13.9% clay content prevents it from becoming too heavy or sticky.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
The organic matter content reaches a remarkable 9.24%, more than doubling the Arkansas average of 4.15%. While available water capacity is slightly lower than the state average at 0.122 in/in, the rich organic profile fuels rapid plant growth.
Well Drained Land for Healthy Roots
Most soils here are classified as well drained, allowing water to move through the root zone without causing rot. As part of hydrologic group C, the soil still requires management to prevent surface runoff during intense rain events.
Ozark Foothills Gardening in Zone 7b
The rich Mollisols of zone 7b are ideal for intensive vegetable gardening and diverse forage for livestock. Sharp County residents enjoy some of the highest organic matter levels in the state, giving them a distinct head start.
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: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Sharp County have?
Sharp County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 39% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Sharp County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Sharp 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 Sharp County?
Sharp 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 Sharp County's soil?
Based on Sharp County's 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 Sharp County?
Sharp County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Sharp 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.