Webster County Soil Data
Webster County, Mississippi
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Webster County, Mississippi
Alfisols and Acidic Clay Loams
Webster County features Alfisols, which are typically fertile but acidic, with a local pH average of 5.25. This is slightly below the state average of 5.30, indicating a need for lime to boost productivity for many garden plants.
Silty Clay Loam Texture
The soil is composed of 57.1% silt and 14.3% clay, officially categorized as a silty clay loam. This mixture provides a smooth texture that is highly effective at holding onto nutrients and maintaining soil structure.
Superior Moisture Holding Capacity
At 0.196 in/in, the available water capacity is significantly higher than the Mississippi average of 0.174. While organic matter is 1.61%, the high silt content ensures that every drop of rain is stored efficiently for plant use.
Somewhat Poorly Drained Profile
Belonging to Hydrologic Group D, these soils are 'somewhat poorly drained' and tend to stay wet for long periods. This can delay planting in the spring and requires careful planning for building foundations to manage water pressure.
Ideal for Moisture-Loving Plants
In zone 8a, Webster County is well-suited for moisture-loving crops like rice or certain varieties of hay. For the home gardener, raised beds are a smart choice to manage the slow drainage while taking advantage of the high water capacity.
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 loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Webster County have?
Webster County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 57% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Webster County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Webster County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Webster County?
Webster 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 Webster County's soil?
Based on Webster County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 5.3, 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 Webster County?
Webster 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 Webster 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.