Chariton County Soil Data
Chariton County, Missouri
Avg pH
6.6
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Chariton County, Missouri
Rich Alfisols of Chariton
Chariton County features high-quality Alfisols with an average pH of 6.59. This slightly exceeds the national median of 6.5, making it one of the most chemically balanced soil profiles in the state.
Productive Silt Loams
The soil is a classic silt loam, comprised of 57.2% silt and 25.3% clay. This provides an ideal balance of nutrient-holding capacity and workability, earning the county a high soil score of 73.8.
High-Efficiency Water Storage
The available water capacity is a robust 0.200 in/in, which is well above the Missouri state average. Even with organic matter at a modest 2.55%, the soil remains highly fertile due to its superior texture and moisture management.
Excellent Water Movement
Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group B, these soils move water more efficiently than many neighboring areas. This makes the land less prone to flooding and more suitable for early-season planting.
Prime Zone 6a Conditions
Zone 6a is perfect for growing diverse grains and leafy greens in these premium silt loams. Your garden will thrive here thanks to the near-perfect pH and excellent drainage properties of the local soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Chariton County have?
Chariton County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 57% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Chariton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Chariton County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Chariton County?
Chariton 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 Chariton County's soil?
Based on Chariton County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.6, 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 Chariton County?
Chariton County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Chariton 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.