Bollinger County Soil Data

Bollinger County, Missouri

Avg pH

5.7

Texture

Silty clay loam

Drainage

Well drained

Organic Matter

10.9%

Hydrologic Group

C

Data Story

About Soil in Bollinger County, Missouri

Acidic Entisols of Bollinger County

Bollinger County features Entisols with a silty clay loam texture. Its average pH of 5.74 is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, often requiring lime for optimal crop growth.

A Silty Foundation for Farming

The soil mix consists of 58.1% silt and 14.2% clay, balanced by 15.8% sand. This silty clay loam texture offers a stable structure that retains nutrients well while remaining workable for local farmers.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

The county boasts a remarkable 10.90% organic matter content, far exceeding the Missouri average of 4.74%. Its available water capacity of 0.181 inches matches the state average, providing a reliable reservoir for thirsty roots.

Well Drained with High Runoff Potential

Classified as well drained, the soil allows water to move through the profile effectively. However, its hydrologic group C designation indicates a moderately high runoff risk during heavy Missouri rainstorms.

Gardening in Hardiness Zone 6b

With a soil score of 66.2, this land is prime for diverse plantings. Residents in zone 6b should leverage the high organic matter to grow vigorous leafy greens and productive fruit trees.

Soil Composition

Silty clay loam
Sand: 15.8%
Silt: 58.1%
Clay: 14.2%
Silty clay loam

Soil pH

5.7pH
5.7350421469591
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

Group C — Moderate-High Runoff

Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.

Runoff potential:Moderate-High

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

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 Bollinger County have?

Bollinger County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 58% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Bollinger County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Bollinger County's soil has a pH of 5.7, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Bollinger County?

Bollinger 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 Bollinger County's soil?

Based on Bollinger County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 5.7, 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 Bollinger County?

Bollinger 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.

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.