Keokuk County Soil Data
Keokuk County, Iowa
Avg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Keokuk County, Iowa
Keokuk's Silt-Heavy Soil Identity
Keokuk County's soil has an average pH of 6.25, placing it on the acidic side of the national 6.5 median. While more specific taxonomic data is currently limited, the soil score of 64.1 indicates a capable agricultural foundation.
Dense Composition and Fine Texture
The soil is dominated by 56.8% silt and 25.6% clay, with a relatively low 17.6% sand. This fine-textured mix is excellent for holding onto essential plant nutrients, though it may stay wet longer after heavy rains.
Solid Organic Foundation
With 2.73% organic matter, Keokuk soils exceed the national 2.0% benchmark for healthy land. The available water capacity of 0.184 in/in is slightly lower than the state average, but still provides a strong buffer against dry weather.
Water Retention is Key
Formal drainage class data is limited for Keokuk, but the high clay content suggests the soil retains moisture very well. Farmers and gardeners here often focus on soil health to ensure that heavy silty soils remain breathable.
Lush Growth in Zone 5b
Keokuk County's Zone 5b climate supports a wide range of mid-season crops and flowers. Consider starting a backyard plot with nutrient-hungry plants like pumpkins or tomatoes that can tap into the soil's natural silt-based fertility.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Keokuk County have?
Keokuk County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 57% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Keokuk County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Keokuk County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Keokuk County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Keokuk County.
What crops or plants grow well in Keokuk County's soil?
Based on Keokuk County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Keokuk County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Keokuk County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Keokuk County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Iowa
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.