Yazoo County Soil Data

Yazoo County, Mississippi

Avg pH

5.8

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

1.4%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Yazoo County, Mississippi

Yazoo's Balanced Chemical Profile

Yazoo County soil maintains an average pH of 5.76, which is notably less acidic than the state average of 5.30. Although it remains below the national median of 6.5, this level provides a more versatile foundation for a wider variety of plants. This chemical profile suggests a relatively healthy environment for both native flora and agriculture.

Dense Silt and Clay Mix

The soil is dominated by 64.9% silt and 21.5% clay, with only 13.6% sand. This composition creates a dense, heavy earth that excels at holding onto nutrients but requires careful management to avoid compaction. The high silt and clay content provides excellent structural support for larger, deep-rooted crops.

Exceptional Water Retention for Crops

Yazoo's available water capacity is a robust 0.210 in/in, significantly outperforming the state average of 0.174 in/in. While organic matter is lower than the state average at 1.41%, the soil's ability to hold water is a major asset. This high moisture capacity helps local farms withstand periods of drought more effectively than neighboring counties.

Heavier Soils Require Drainage Care

Specific drainage classifications are not currently available, but the high clay and silt levels suggest the land retains water longer than sandy regions. This characteristic is beneficial for thirsty crops but requires careful monitoring of drainage during heavy rains to prevent root rot. Growers should consider raised beds if they encounter standing water in low-lying areas.

A Premier Agricultural Zone

With a high soil score of 52.6, Yazoo dramatically outpaces the state average of 35.7. Hardiness zone 8b allows for a long growing season perfect for cotton, pecans, and heat-loving vegetables. This combination of high water capacity and strong soil scores makes Yazoo a standout location for southern gardening.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 13.6%
Silt: 64.9%
Clay: 21.5%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

5.8pH
5.7608183149858
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Yazoo County have?

Yazoo County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 14% sand, 65% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Yazoo County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Yazoo County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Yazoo County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Yazoo County.

What crops or plants grow well in Yazoo County's soil?

Based on Yazoo County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.8, 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 Yazoo County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Yazoo County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.