Bollinger County Soil Data
Bollinger County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Bollinger County
Soil Verdict
Bollinger County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Bollinger County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bollinger 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.