Howard County Soil Data
Howard County, Missouri
Avg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Howard County, Missouri
Classic Missouri Silt Loam Alfisols
Howard County is dominated by silt loam textures and the Alfisol soil order, which is known for its fertility. The average pH is 6.25, placing it comfortably between the Missouri average of 6.09 and the national median of 6.5. This acidity level is near perfect for a wide range of forest and field crops.
Fine-Textured Soil with Minimal Sand
The soil consists of 63.2% silt and 20.6% clay, creating a very fine-textured and smooth soil profile. With only 15.7% sand, these soils are not particularly gritty but are very effective at nutrient storage. This high silt content makes the land easy to work when moisture levels are just right.
Leading the State in Water Storage
Howard County features an impressive Available Water Capacity of 0.205 in/in, which is well above the Missouri average of 0.183 in/in. Organic matter stands at 2.33%, which is higher than the national average but below the state's 4.74% benchmark. This soil acts like a sponge, keeping plants hydrated through the Missouri heat.
Reliable Drainage for Better Building
The soil is classified as well drained and falls into hydrologic group B, indicating a moderate rate of water infiltration. This makes the county's land favorable for both agriculture and construction, as it sheds excess water without extreme runoff. It is an ideal profile for those looking to build homes or maintain healthy pastures.
Abundant Harvests in Zone 6b
The 6b Hardiness Zone and a high soil score of 69.7 make Howard County a gardener's dream. The silt loam is perfect for deep-rooted crops like carrots and potatoes, as well as lush orchards. Plant your favorite perennials today and watch them flourish in this premium soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Howard County have?
Howard County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 63% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Howard County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Howard County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Howard County?
Howard 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 Howard County's soil?
Based on Howard County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Howard County?
Howard 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Howard 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.