Johnson County Soil Data
Johnson County, Missouri
Avg pH
6.1
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Somewhat poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Johnson County, Missouri
Productive Mollisols in Johnson County
Johnson County features Mollisols, the world's most productive agricultural soils, with a pH of 6.13. This is more acidic than the 6.5 national median but remains highly suitable for a variety of crops.
High Clay for Structural Strength
The silt loam here contains 23.7% clay and 60.6% silt, offering more structural grip than neighboring counties. This blend is excellent for retaining the moisture and nutrients necessary for heavy-feeding plants.
Superior Water Retention Properties
The available water capacity is a robust 0.210 in/in, which significantly outperforms the Missouri state average of 0.183 in/in. While organic matter is 2.42%, the high water capacity ensures plants stay hydrated during summer heat.
Managing Poorly Drained Areas
Classified as somewhat poorly drained in hydrologic group D, these soils can hold water at the surface. Farmers and builders should plan for slow infiltration rates to avoid saturated ground and root rot.
Reliable Growing in Zone 6b
Zone 6b gardeners can rely on this soil's high water capacity for thirsty summer crops like melons and cucumbers. With a high soil score of 69.8, your backyard garden has great potential for high yields.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Somewhat poorly drained
Water is removed slowly enough that the soil is wet at shallow depths for significant periods. Mottling present.
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 Johnson County have?
Johnson County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 15% sand, 61% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Johnson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Johnson 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 Johnson County?
Johnson County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Johnson County's soil?
Based on Johnson County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.1, and Somewhat poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Johnson County?
Johnson County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Johnson 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.