Lafayette County Soil Data
Lafayette County, Missouri
Avg pH
6.5
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Lafayette County, Missouri
Prime Alfisols in Lafayette County
Lafayette County sits on Alfisols with a pH of 6.47, nearly identical to the national 6.5 median. These soils are naturally fertile and support a high soil score of 77.9, making them some of the best in Missouri.
Perfect Silt Loam Balance
The silt loam texture is created by 63.5% silt and 23.1% clay. This specific mix offers excellent workability for farmers while ensuring that nutrients stay within reach of plant roots.
Excellent Fertility and Water Reserves
Available water capacity is high at 0.207 in/in, outperforming the state average. Organic matter is stable at 2.61%, which is healthy by national standards and supports a vibrant soil ecosystem.
Well-Drained Agricultural Land
The soil is well drained and categorized in hydrologic group C. This ensures that excess water moves away from roots quickly, making it a reliable choice for sensitive crops and stable building projects.
Bountiful Harvests in Zone 6b
This county is ideal for growing high-value crops like heirloom tomatoes and orchard fruits in Zone 6b. Take advantage of this top-tier soil by starting a home vegetable garden this spring.
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: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lafayette County have?
Lafayette County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 13% sand, 64% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lafayette County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lafayette County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Lafayette County?
Lafayette 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 Lafayette County's soil?
Based on Lafayette County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.5, 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 Lafayette County?
Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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.