DeSoto County Soil Data
DeSoto County, Mississippi
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in DeSoto County, Mississippi
Silt Loam and Acidic Alfisols
DeSoto County is defined by its silt loam soils belonging to the Alfisols taxonomic order. The average pH of 5.50 is significantly more acidic than the national 6.5 median but remains higher than the Mississippi state average of 5.30.
Heavy Silt with Balanced Clay
The soil composition is 59.0% silt, giving the ground a smooth and workable texture. A balanced mix of 20.6% sand and 20.4% clay provides enough structure to prevent the rapid nutrient loss common in sandier regions.
High Water Storage Potential
The county boasts an available water capacity of 0.200 in/in, which is higher than the state average of 0.174 in/in. Organic matter sits at 1.42%, falling below the national 2.0% benchmark and suggesting a need for supplemental composting.
Moderately Well Drained Land
These soils are classified as moderately well drained and belong to hydrologic group C/D. This indicates that while the land is suitable for farming, builders should prepare for slower infiltration during heavy rain events.
Thriving in Zone 8a
DeSoto County is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, supporting a wide variety of southern crops and ornamentals. Gardeners should leverage the high water capacity to grow thirsty vegetables like tomatoes and peppers.
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: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does DeSoto County have?
DeSoto County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 21% sand, 59% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is DeSoto County's soil acidic or alkaline?
DeSoto 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 DeSoto County?
DeSoto 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 DeSoto County's soil?
Based on DeSoto County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Moderately 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 DeSoto County?
DeSoto 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for DeSoto County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Mississippi
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.