Oktibbeha County Soil Data
Oktibbeha County, Mississippi
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Silty clay
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Oktibbeha County, Mississippi
Expansive Vertisols of Oktibbeha
Oktibbeha County is home to Vertisols, a unique clay-rich soil order known for shrinking and swelling. Its 5.49 pH is more favorable than the 5.30 state average, though it remains more acidic than the 6.5 national median.
Heavy Silty Clay Texture
The silty clay texture comes from a mix of 46.3% silt and 21.8% clay. This high clay content creates a heavy, dense soil that holds onto nutrients but can be challenging to plow when wet.
Top-Tier Organic Matter Content
At 2.11%, the organic matter content is impressive, surpassing both the state average and the 2.0% national benchmark. The available water capacity of 0.175 in/in matches the state average, providing a reliable reservoir.
Planning for Slow-Draining Clay
This soil is somewhat poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group D, indicating high runoff potential. Builders and gardeners must plan for slow drainage and the physical movement of this expansive clay.
Nutrient-Dense Ground for Vegetables
Hardiness zone 8a allows for a wide range of vegetables, with tomatoes and peppers performing well in these nutrient-dense soils. Dig in some grit or compost to improve the structure of the heavy clay and get planting today.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Somewhat poorly drained
Water is removed slowly enough that the soil is wet at shallow depths for significant periods. Mottling present.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Oktibbeha County have?
Oktibbeha County's soil is classified as Silty clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 46% silt, and 22% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Oktibbeha County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Oktibbeha 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 Oktibbeha County?
Oktibbeha County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Oktibbeha County's soil?
Based on Oktibbeha County's Silty clay texture, pH of 5.5, and Somewhat poorly drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Oktibbeha County?
Oktibbeha County's dominant soil order is Vertisols. Vertisols are clay-rich soils that shrink and crack when dry and swell when wet. They are challenging to manage but often fertile.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Oktibbeha 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.