Jefferson County Soil Data
Jefferson County, Missouri
Avg pH
6.1
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
9.6%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Jefferson County, Missouri
Young Entisols in Jefferson County
Jefferson County is defined by Entisols, which are geologically young soils with an average pH of 6.05. This pH level is slightly lower than the national median of 6.5, suggesting a moderately acidic environment for plant life.
The Versatility of Silt Loam
The dominant texture is silt loam, consisting of 58.6% silt and 15.4% clay. This high silt content makes the soil easy to work and provides a balanced environment for root penetration.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter reaches a staggering 9.61%, more than double the Missouri average of 4.74%. Although the available water capacity is 0.172 in/in, the rich organic content provides an incredible reservoir of nutrients for crops.
Moderately Well Drained Foundations
The soil is moderately well drained and belongs to hydrologic group C. These characteristics imply that while water moves through the soil, drainage can be slow, making it important to manage runoff during heavy Missouri rains.
High-Yield Potential in Zone 7a
Jefferson County's Zone 7a status and high organic matter make it a paradise for organic gardening. The rich soil is perfect for intensive vegetable production or establishing fruit-bearing perennials.
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
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 Jefferson County have?
Jefferson County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 13% sand, 59% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jefferson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jefferson County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Jefferson County?
Jefferson County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Jefferson County's soil?
Based on Jefferson County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.1, and Moderately 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 Jefferson County?
Jefferson 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 Jefferson 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.