Miller County Soil Data
Miller County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Miller County, Missouri
Young Entisol Soils of Miller County
Miller County is dominated by Entisols, which are relatively young soils with limited profile development. The average pH of 6.03 is more acidic than the national 6.5 median and slightly below the state average.
Working with Silty Clay Loam
The soil is classified as a silty clay loam, featuring a high 64.8% silt content and 17.8% clay. This mix makes the ground relatively easy to work while maintaining enough structure for farming.
Average Water Capacity and Moderate Fertility
Organic matter content reaches 2.47%, outperforming the national 2.0% average but falling short of the state’s high 4.74% benchmark. An available water capacity of 0.182 in/in aligns closely with the Missouri state average.
Well-Drained Land for Stable Building
Classified as well-drained and falling into hydrologic group C, this soil sheds excess water effectively. These characteristics are favorable for construction and agriculture, though plants may need irrigation during Missouri's summer heat.
Thriving in the 6b Climate
The 6b hardiness zone offers a generous growing season for tomatoes, peppers, and fruit trees. Start your garden today to take advantage of soil that is among the most workable in the region.
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: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Miller County have?
Miller County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 65% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Miller County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Miller County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Miller County?
Miller 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 Miller County's soil?
Based on Miller County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.0, 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 Miller County?
Miller 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Miller County
Soil Verdict
Miller County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Miller County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Miller 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.