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Cass County Soil Data

Cass County, Missouri

USDA SSURGO / PHZM

Avg pH

6.2

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

2.7%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Cass County, Missouri

A Stable Base in Cass

Cass County maintains an average pH of 6.21, which sits comfortably between the Missouri state average of 6.09 and the national median of 6.5. This near-neutral acidity level provides a versatile foundation for a wide range of plant life.

The Power of Silt

Silt dominates the landscape at 60.7%, paired with 26.2% clay and a low 12.4% sand content. This mix creates a smooth, heavy soil that excels at holding onto vital nutrients but can be slow to dry after a spring rain.

Excellent Moisture Storage

The available water capacity is 0.200 in/in, significantly higher than the Missouri average of 0.183 in/in. While the 2.70% organic matter is lower than the state average, the high water retention makes it very resilient during dry spells.

Adaptable Hydrology Potential

While specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are limited for this county, the high silt and clay percentages suggest a need for surface management. The soil score of 69.9 indicates high overall quality for diverse agricultural uses.

Start Your Garden in 6b

Hardiness Zone 6b allows for a great variety of perennials and hardy vegetables. Utilize this high-capacity soil to grow deep-rooted crops like tomatoes and peppers that benefit from the steady moisture levels.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 12.4%
Silt: 60.7%
Clay: 26.2%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.2pH
6.21283661417748
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Series

Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.

Hydrologic Group

Hydrologic group data not available.

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Silt Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Soil Amendment Products

Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Cass County have?

Cass County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 12% sand, 61% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Cass County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Cass County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Cass County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Cass County.

What crops or plants grow well in Cass County's soil?

Based on Cass County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.

What USDA soil order is found in Cass County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Cass County is not currently available in our dataset.

Soil & Planting Advisory: Cass County

Soil Verdict

Cass 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

Cass County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.

Other Counties in Missouri

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

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.