Gasconade County Soil Data
Gasconade County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
5.6%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Gasconade County, Missouri
Missouri's Classic Forested Alfisols
Gasconade County features Alfisols, a taxonomic order often associated with productive wooded landscapes. Its average pH of 5.99 is nearly identical to the state average of 6.09, providing a familiar baseline for local farmers.
The Versatility of Silt Loam
With a 59.9% silt content and 18.0% sand, the dominant texture is silt loam. This composition, rounded out by 16.6% clay, offers a great balance of drainage and the ability to hold onto essential plant nutrients.
Solid Fertility and Water Retention
Organic matter sits at a healthy 5.65%, comfortably exceeding the Missouri average of 4.74%. The available water capacity of 0.179 in/in is very close to the state benchmark, ensuring reliable moisture for consistent growth.
Well-Drained Land in Group C
The dominant drainage class is well drained, making this county excellent for varied land use. Falling into Hydrologic Group C, the soil has a slow infiltration rate when wet but prevents the standing water issues seen elsewhere.
Perfect Conditions for Zone 6b
The reliable drainage and above-average organic matter make Gasconade County ideal for orchards and vineyards. In Hardiness Zone 6b, you can grow everything from crisp apples to summer peppers with great success.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 6.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Gasconade County have?
Gasconade County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 60% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Gasconade County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Gasconade County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Gasconade County?
Gasconade 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 Gasconade County's soil?
Based on Gasconade County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.0, 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 Gasconade County?
Gasconade 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: Gasconade County
Soil Verdict
Gasconade 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
Gasconade County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Gasconade 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.