Hickory County Soil Data
Hickory County, Missouri
Avg pH
5.9
Texture
Gravelly silty clay
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Hickory County, Missouri
Gravelly Entisols Define the Landscape
The dominant soil in Hickory County is a gravelly silty clay classified under the Entisols order. With a pH of 5.86, these soils are notably more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.09. This youthful soil order often requires careful management to build up productive layers.
Silt-Rich Mix with Rockier Textures
Hickory County soil is composed of 58.4% silt and 18.8% clay, though the gravelly texture significantly influences its workability. The 19.5% sand content provides some drainage, but the high silt percentage can lead to surface crusting. This mix is common in the Ozark region and presents unique challenges for traditional tilling.
Tough Conditions for Water and Nutrients
Organic matter is low at 2.11%, trailing far behind the Missouri average of 4.74%. The Available Water Capacity is 0.172 in/in, which is below the state average of 0.183 in/in, meaning these soils dry out faster. Growers will find that these soils need frequent watering and consistent organic inputs to remain productive.
Well Drained with Slow Infiltration
The soil is classified as well drained, yet it belongs to hydrologic group C, which indicates a slow rate of water transmission. This combination means while the soil doesn't stay soggy, it doesn't absorb heavy rains quickly, leading to potential runoff. Builders should note these characteristics when planning septic systems or foundations.
Hardy Planting in Zone 6b
Hickory County sits in Hardiness Zone 6b, providing a versatile climate for fruit trees and perennial herbs. While the soil score of 48.9 is below the state average, raised beds can easily bypass the gravelly texture. Start a backyard orchard today to take advantage of the well-drained slopes.
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: Gravelly silty clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Hickory County have?
Hickory County's soil is classified as Gravelly silty clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 58% silt, and 19% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Hickory County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hickory County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Hickory County?
Hickory 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 Hickory County's soil?
Based on Hickory County's Gravelly silty clay texture, pH of 5.9, 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 Hickory County?
Hickory County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hickory 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.