Yell County Soil Data
Yell County, Arkansas
Avg pH
5.6
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Yell County, Arkansas
Alfisols Underlie Yell County
Yell County sits on Alfisols, which are naturally productive soils with a pH of 5.55. This acidity level matches the state average almost exactly but remains nearly a full point lower than the national median of 6.5.
Light and Workable Sandy Loam
The soil is a fine sandy loam composed of 44.5% sand and 39.8% silt. With only 15.5% clay, the ground is light and easy to till, though it may require more frequent fertilization to maintain productivity.
Lower Water Capacity and Organic Matter
Organic matter levels are 1.57%, falling well below the state average of 4.15%. The available water capacity of 0.137 in/in also trails the state benchmark, suggesting the soil dries out faster during Arkansas summers.
Slow Infiltration and Moderate Drainage
These soils are moderately well-drained and fall into hydrologic group C. This indicates a somewhat slow rate of water transmission, which can lead to temporary ponding during heavy rainfall events.
Heat-Loving Crops for Zone 8a
Zone 8a offers plenty of heat for summer favorites like tomatoes and peppers. Gardeners should focus on adding compost to improve water retention and counter the county's low organic matter score.
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Yell County have?
Yell County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 45% sand, 40% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Yell County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Yell 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 Yell County?
Yell County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Yell County's soil?
Based on Yell County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 5.6, and Moderately 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 Yell County?
Yell 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.
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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.