Holt County Soil Data
Holt County, Missouri
Avg pH
6.8
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
2.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Holt County, Missouri
Naturally Sweet and Alkaline Soils
Holt County boasts an average pH of 6.84, making it one of the few Missouri counties more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This 'sweet' soil is significantly less acidic than the state average of 6.09. These conditions are ideal for nutrient uptake in many commercial crops.
High Silt Content for Prime Farming
The soil profile is dominated by 59.8% silt and 25.2% clay, with a low 15.0% sand content. This composition results in a dense soil that is excellent at holding onto essential minerals. It provides a stable, fine-textured environment that is prized for its agricultural potential.
Exceptional Water Capacity for Crops
Available Water Capacity is a strong 0.201 in/in, beating the Missouri state average of 0.183 in/in. While the 2.77% organic matter is lower than the state average of 4.74%, it still exceeds the national average of 2.0%. This combination ensures that plants have access to water even during the height of summer.
Unique Subaqueous Drainage Characteristics
The dominant drainage class is identified as subaqueous, suggesting that certain areas are subject to permanent or frequent saturation. Hydrologic group data is not currently specified, requiring local land managers to closely monitor water tables. These conditions are often found near the county's significant river borders.
Productive Gardening in Zone 6a
In Hardiness Zone 6a, Holt County is a prime spot for corn, soybeans, and large-scale vegetable gardens. A respectable soil score of 69.7 reflects the high-quality growing conditions found across the county. Your garden will thrive here with minimal pH adjustment needed.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Holt County have?
Holt County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 15% sand, 60% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Holt County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Holt County's soil has a pH of 6.8, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Holt County?
Holt 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 Holt County's soil?
Based on Holt County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.8, 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 Holt County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Holt County is not currently available in our dataset.
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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.