Cole County Soil Data
Cole County, Missouri
Avg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.2%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Cole County, Missouri
Balanced pH and Alfisols
Cole County soils belong to the Alfisols order and maintain a pH of 6.37, which is very close to the national median of 6.5. This pH level is more favorable for nutrient uptake than the state average of 6.09.
Silty Texture for Smooth Farming
A high silt content of 62.7% combined with 17.8% sand creates a silt loam that is easy to work. The 18.3% clay helps retain essential nutrients without making the soil too heavy or difficult to drain.
Resilient Water Storage
The soil features 2.23% organic matter, slightly above the national average of 2.0%. With an available water capacity of 0.192 in/in, the land holds more moisture than the state average of 0.183 in/in.
Naturally Well Drained
This county benefits from a well-drained classification and belongs to hydrologic group C. These characteristics make it excellent for diverse agriculture and stable building foundations where water management is key.
Versatile Growth in Zone 6b
The 6b hardiness zone and a soil score of 66.5 support a wide range of vegetables and orchard fruits. Start your garden today with confidence, as these soils provide better-than-average stability for Missouri growers.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
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 Cole County have?
Cole County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 63% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cole County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cole County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Cole County?
Cole 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 Cole County's soil?
Based on Cole County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Cole County?
Cole 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 Cole 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.