Dade County Soil Data
Dade County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.8
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Dade County, Missouri
Acidic Prairie Soils
Dade County soils average a pH of 5.79, making them notably more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This profile indicates a need for monitoring if you intend to grow crops that prefer more alkaline conditions.
Sandy and Silty Mix
The composition is 58.6% silt and 24.1% sand, which is a higher sand percentage than many neighboring counties. This 15.7% clay mix creates a soil that provides decent aeration for root systems.
Healthy Organic Levels
With 3.11% organic matter, Dade County sits well above the national 2.0% average. The available water capacity of 0.185 in/in matches the Missouri state average, providing a reliable baseline for crop hydration.
Variable Water Dynamics
Detailed drainage class and taxonomic data are limited for this county's broad profile. However, the sandy silt composition suggests that water moves relatively freely through the upper layers of the soil.
Southern Missouri Zone 7a
As one of the warmer spots in the state, Zone 7a allows for a longer growing season for peppers and okra. Use the county's solid organic matter to fuel a productive backyard vegetable patch.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.8. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Dade County have?
Dade County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 59% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Dade County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Dade County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Dade County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Dade County.
What crops or plants grow well in Dade County's soil?
Based on Dade County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.8, 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 Dade County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Dade County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Dade County
Soil Verdict
Dade County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Dade County is somewhat warmer than the Missouri statewide average. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Dade 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.