Clay County Soil Data
Clay County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.5
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Clay County, Missouri
Clay County’s Top-Tier Soil
Clay County boasts a premier soil score of 76.2 and a near-perfect pH of 6.52. This matches the national median almost exactly, providing one of the most favorable chemical environments for plants in Missouri.
Silt-Dominated Productivity
The soil is 61.2% silt and 26.1% clay, with very little sand at just 12.2%. This high silt content makes for a very smooth, fertile soil that holds both nutrients and structure exceptionally well.
Exceptional Water and Nutrients
An available water capacity of 0.200 in/in ensures that crops have access to water even during dry spells. Combined with 2.72% organic matter, this soil provides a rich, reliable medium for high-yield gardening.
Stable and Productive Land
Though specific taxonomic orders and drainage classes are broadly categorized, the high score indicates very few limitations for land use. The heavy silt and clay profile suggests a stable foundation for both agriculture and development.
Perfect Planting in Zone 6a
The combination of ideal pH and high water capacity makes Clay County a gardener’s dream in Zone 6a. Whether you are planting flowers or food, these soils are ready to support a thriving, lush landscape.
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
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Clay County have?
Clay 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 Clay County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Clay County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Clay County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Clay County.
What crops or plants grow well in Clay County's soil?
Based on Clay County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.5, 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 Clay County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Clay County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Clay County
Soil Verdict
Clay County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Clay County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Clay 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.