Clinton County Soil Data
Clinton County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
3.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Clinton County, Missouri
Prime Productive Silt Loams
Clinton County features productive Alfisols and a silt loam texture that supports a high soil score of 75.8. Its average pH of 6.32 sits just below the national median of 6.5 but remains significantly higher than the Missouri average of 6.09.
High Silt and Clay Balance
The soil consists of 59.7% silt and 26.5% clay, providing a heavy structure with excellent nutrient capacity. With only 13.8% sand, this mix requires careful timing for tilling but offers superior workability once prepared.
Strong Organic Foundation
The county boasts 3.07% organic matter, outperforming the national average of 2.0%. Its available water capacity of 0.204 in/in stays above the state benchmark of 0.183, ensuring crops have reliable access to moisture during dry spells.
Steady Moisture Retention
Classified as moderately well drained, these soils fall into hydrologic group D, indicating a slower rate of water transmission. This profile suggests that local growers should plan for managed runoff during heavy Missouri rainfalls.
A Gardeners Haven in Zone 6a
Located in hardiness zone 6a, this county is ideal for growing hearty staples like sweet corn and tomatoes. The robust soil score of 75.8 provides an excellent foundation for any home gardener or commercial producer to thrive.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Clinton County have?
Clinton County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 14% sand, 60% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Clinton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Clinton County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Clinton County?
Clinton County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Clinton County's soil?
Based on Clinton County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.3, and Moderately 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 Clinton County?
Clinton 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Clinton County
Soil Verdict
Clinton 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
Clinton County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Clinton 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.