Callaway County Soil Data
Callaway County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Callaway County, Missouri
Callaway's Productive Silty Entisols
Callaway County is dominated by Entisols with a silty clay loam texture. The average pH of 6.38 is very close to the national median of 6.5, offering a balanced start for most growers.
The Silt-Heavy Profile
Silt makes up 62.7% of the soil, providing a smooth texture that is highly fertile. With 19.4% clay and 17.4% sand, the soil provides a middle-ground approach to drainage and nutrient retention.
Exceptional Water Storage Potential
The available water capacity of 0.196 is higher than the Missouri average of 0.183. Although organic matter is lower at 2.27%, the overall soil score of 69.1 reflects a very capable agricultural landscape.
Reliable Drainage and Runoff
The soil is classified as well drained, belonging to hydrologic group C. This ensures that while water moves through the profile, the soil still poses a moderate runoff risk during intense storms.
Thrive in Hardiness Zone 6b
Callaway's climate and soil are perfect for everything from sweet corn to flower gardens. Use the county's high water capacity to your advantage by planting moisture-loving summer annuals.
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 Callaway County have?
Callaway County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 63% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Callaway County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Callaway 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 Callaway County?
Callaway 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 Callaway County's soil?
Based on Callaway 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 Callaway County?
Callaway 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: Callaway County
Soil Verdict
Callaway 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
Callaway County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Callaway 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.