Monroe County Soil Data
Monroe County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Monroe County, Missouri
High-Quality Soils of Monroe County
Monroe County reaches an impressive soil score of 72.4, driven by a healthy pH of 6.31. This acidity level is significantly more balanced than the Missouri state average of 6.09.
Fine-Grained Earth for Heavy Farming
The composition is 60.8% silt and 21.1% clay, providing a dense but manageable texture for local growers. A 17.4% sand component helps facilitate essential airflow within the soil profile.
A Water-Holding Powerhouse
This soil is a water-holding powerhouse with an available water capacity of 0.205 in/in, far exceeding the state average. Organic matter sits at 2.47%, which is healthy by national standards but lower than the state mark.
Reliable Moisture for Local Crops
Specific drainage and taxonomic data are limited, but the high water capacity suggests the soil is excellent at buffering against droughts. The high silt content usually indicates the ground will remain moist long after rainfall.
One of Missouri's Most Productive Counties
Gardeners in zone 6a can grow a vast array of vegetables and perennials in this high-scoring soil. It is one of the most productive counties in the state, making it a perfect place to start a backyard farm.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Monroe County have?
Monroe County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 61% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Monroe County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Monroe 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 Monroe County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Monroe County.
What crops or plants grow well in Monroe County's soil?
Based on Monroe County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Monroe County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Monroe County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Monroe County
Soil Verdict
Monroe County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Monroe County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Monroe 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.