Andrew County Soil Data
Andrew County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.0%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Andrew County, Missouri
Andrew County's Fertile Entisols
Andrew County features Entisols with an average pH of 6.37, placing it just slightly below the national median of 6.5. This silty clay loam is much closer to neutral than many other Missouri soils, providing a stable foundation for agriculture.
Nutrient-Rich Silty Clay Loam
The soil is composed of 12.9% sand, 59.1% silt, and 28% clay, making it a heavy but fertile medium. This high silt and clay content provides exceptional nutrient retention, though it may require more effort to till than sandier varieties.
Superior Water Retention
The soil boasts an Available Water Capacity of 0.200 in/in, which is significantly higher than the Missouri average of 0.183. Organic matter content reaches 2.98%, offering solid growing potential that comfortably beats the national average of 2.0%.
Well-Drained Agricultural Land
Classified as well-drained and falling into Hydrologic Group C, this soil manages water effectively despite its density. This balance makes it suitable for both large-scale farming and home gardening without a high risk of seasonal ponding.
Hardy Crops for Zone 6a
Andrew County sits in Zone 6a, a climate that supports a wide variety of perennials and hardy vegetables. Your garden will thrive here, especially with crops like beans and leafy greens that appreciate the soil's water-holding strength.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Andrew County have?
Andrew County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 13% sand, 59% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Andrew County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Andrew County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Andrew County?
Andrew County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Andrew County's soil?
Based on Andrew County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Andrew County?
Andrew County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Andrew County
Soil Verdict
Andrew County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Andrew County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Andrew County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Missouri
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.