Boone County Soil Data
Boone County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.6
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Boone County, Missouri
Near-Neutral Soil in Boone County
Boone County features an average pH of 6.61, which sits slightly above the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic data is limited, this pH level is nearly ideal for a wide variety of Missouri plants.
High Silt for Better Texture
The soil composition is dominated by 63.4% silt and 20.2% clay. This high silt content makes the earth feel smooth and enhances its ability to hold onto essential plant nutrients.
Water Retention Beats State Averages
The county's available water capacity of 0.196 inches per inch exceeds the state average of 0.183. Although the 2.59% organic matter is lower than the Missouri average, the soil remains highly productive with a score of 71.7.
Managing Saturated Soil Conditions
The dominant drainage is classified as subaqueous, implying that these soils often remain saturated or are located in low-lying areas. Proper site selection and raised beds can help mitigate drainage challenges for home gardeners.
Thriving in the Heart of Missouri
Hardiness zone 6b provides a long enough growing season for tomatoes, peppers, and various ornamental shrubs. The high water capacity ensures your garden stays hydrated even during dry summer spells.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Subaqueous
Drainage class: Subaqueous
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Boone County have?
Boone County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 63% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Boone County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Boone County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Boone County?
Boone County has a dominant drainage class of "Subaqueous." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Boone County's soil?
Based on Boone County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.6, and Subaqueous, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Boone County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Boone County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Boone County
Soil Verdict
Boone 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
Boone County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Boone 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.