Sharkey County Soil Data
Sharkey County, Mississippi
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.2
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Sharkey County, Mississippi
Superior Soil Quality in Sharkey
Sharkey County boasts a soil score of 53.7, the highest in this group and well above the state average of 35.7. The average pH of 6.24 is the closest to the national median of 6.5, making it significantly less acidic than the 5.30 Mississippi average. This unique profile makes it some of the most productive agricultural land in the state.
Rich Clay and Silt of the Delta
With a high clay content of 35.8% and 48.5% silt, Sharkey soils are heavy and nutrient-dense. Sand only accounts for 15.7% of the soil, meaning these fields hold onto water and fertilizers exceptionally well. These are the famous 'buckshot' soils that define the Mississippi Delta's agricultural power.
Excellent Moisture Retention for Crops
Sharkey County’s available water capacity is 0.183 in/in, surpassing the state average of 0.174 in/in. Although organic matter is 1.64%, which is slightly lower than the state's 1.81%, the high clay content provides an incredible reservoir for plant nutrients. This soil is naturally equipped to sustain high-yield agriculture with minimal amendment.
Managing the Delta's Heavy Clay
The 35.8% clay content suggests that while the soil is fertile, drainage can be slow and problematic during wet seasons. These soils expand when wet and contract when dry, requiring careful management of heavy machinery. However, the high silt and clay levels ensure that once water is absorbed, it stays available for the crops.
Abundant Growth in Zone 8b
Located in hardiness zone 8b, Sharkey County is an agricultural powerhouse perfect for cotton, soybeans, and corn. Home gardeners will find that the near-neutral pH allows for a vast range of vegetables without needing much lime. If you have access to this Delta soil, you have some of the best gardening potential in the country.
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Sharkey County have?
Sharkey County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 49% silt, and 36% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Sharkey County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Sharkey County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Sharkey County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Sharkey County.
What crops or plants grow well in Sharkey County's soil?
Based on Sharkey County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.2, 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 Sharkey County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Sharkey County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Sharkey County
Soil Verdict
Sharkey County is in USDA hardiness zone 8b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 15°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Sharkey County closely matches the Mississippi average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Sharkey 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.