Callaway County Soil Data
Callaway County, Missouri
Avg 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
Frequently 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.
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.