Dent County Soil Data
Dent County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
14.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Dent County, Missouri
Acidic Soil Profiles in Dent County
Dent County soil is notably acidic with an average pH of 5.52, falling well below the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data remains unclassified, the soil's acidity levels are significantly lower than the Missouri state average of 6.09.
Silt-Heavy Mix with Low Clay
The land consists of 46.8% silt and 23.9% sand, creating a silty texture that aids in general workability. With only 11.0% clay, these soils lack the heavy density found in other parts of the state, allowing for easier tilling.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter reaches a high 14.29%, which is triple the Missouri state average of 4.74%. Despite this richness, the available water capacity is 0.144 in/in, meaning the soil holds less moisture for plants than the state norm of 0.183.
Saturated Subaqueous Drainage Challenges
The dominant drainage class is subaqueous, indicating soil that remains saturated or under water for significant periods. This rare classification suggests limited drainage efficiency, impacting how residents plan foundations and farming cycles.
High-Organic Gardening in Zone 6b
The climate in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b allows for a variety of temperate crops and berries. With such high organic matter, your garden is already primed for nutrient-hungry vegetables if you manage the soil's natural acidity.
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
Subaqueous
Drainage class: Subaqueous
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.5. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Dent County have?
Dent County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 47% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Dent County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Dent County's soil has a pH of 5.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Dent County?
Dent County has a dominant drainage class of "Subaqueous." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Dent County's soil?
Based on Dent County's Loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Subaqueous, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Dent County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Dent County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Dent County
Soil Verdict
Dent County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Dent County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Dent 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.