Butler County Soil Data
Butler County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.8
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
7.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Butler County, Missouri
Butler County's Tangy Earth
The soils in Butler County are somewhat acidic, with an average pH of 5.80 compared to the 6.5 national median. While taxonomic data is sparse, this acidity is common in the Missouri Bootheel region.
A Grittier Silt Mix
This county features a higher sand content of 24.5% compared to its neighbors. Combined with 53.8% silt, this mix offers a bit more grit and easier workability for tillage.
Rich Organic Matter Reserves
Butler County stands out with 7.58% organic matter, nearly double the state average of 4.74%. This rich biological content helps compensate for an available water capacity that sits slightly below the state average.
Subaqueous Drainage in the Lowlands
The drainage is classified as subaqueous, reflecting the county's position in a naturally wet, low-lying landscape. Management often requires drainage systems to prevent waterlogging in agricultural fields.
A Longer Season in Zone 7b
In Missouri's warm zone 7b, you can grow a wider variety of crops including some southern favorites. The high organic matter provides a fantastic jumpstart for high-demand plants like melons and squash.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Butler County have?
Butler County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 25% sand, 54% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Butler County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Butler 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 Butler County?
Butler 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 Butler County's soil?
Based on Butler County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.8, 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 Butler County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Butler County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Butler County
Soil Verdict
Butler County is in USDA hardiness zone 7b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 5°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Butler County is somewhat warmer than the Missouri statewide average. The zone range of 7a-7b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Butler 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.