Carter County Soil Data
Carter County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
27.2%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Carter County, Missouri
Acidic Profiles in Carter County
Carter County soils are notably acidic with an average pH of 5.16, falling well below the national median of 6.5. This unique chemistry results in a lower soil score of 39.8, as many regional taxonomic data points remain unclassified.
High Organic Silt Mix
The soil contains 35.8% silt and 17.9% sand, creating a light texture despite the lack of a dominant formal classification. A low clay content of 7.9% means these soils may struggle with structural stability compared to the state's heavier clays.
Massive Organic Matter Reserves
The county boasts an extraordinary organic matter content of 27.23%, dwarfing the state average of 4.74%. However, the available water capacity is quite low at 0.109 in/in, meaning water passes through quickly despite the rich carbon content.
Challenges of Subaqueous Drainage
Classified as subaqueous, these soils are often saturated or influenced by nearby water bodies. This drainage class requires specialized management for any construction or traditional farming efforts to avoid persistent dampness.
Gardening in Warmer Zone 7a
Carter County sits in Hardiness Zone 7a, allowing for a longer growing season than its northern neighbors. Acid-loving plants like blueberries or azaleas will thrive in this naturally low-pH environment.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Carter County have?
Carter County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 36% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Carter County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Carter County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Carter County?
Carter 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 Carter County's soil?
Based on Carter County's Loam texture, pH of 5.2, and Subaqueous, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Carter County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Carter County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Carter County
Soil Verdict
Carter County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°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. 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
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. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Carter County is somewhat warmer than the Missouri statewide average. 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 Carter 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.