Montgomery County Soil Data
Montgomery County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Montgomery County, Missouri
Versatile and Balanced Soil Profile
The soil here features a pH of 6.38, which is one of the closest in the state to the 6.5 national median. This neutral profile makes it highly versatile for both ornamental gardening and large-scale agriculture.
Fine Texture and Nutrient Retention
The mix includes 61.7% silt and 20.5% clay, creating a heavy but nutrient-rich medium. With only 16.5% sand, the soil has a fine texture that holds onto fertilizers and minerals very effectively.
Superior Water Capacity for Plants
The available water capacity of 0.193 in/in is superior to the state average, providing a reliable safety net during dry months. Organic matter at 2.44% beats the national average, though it remains below the state benchmark.
Managing Heavier Silt Soils
Official drainage classifications are currently unlisted for Montgomery County. Given the high silt and clay content, local gardeners should monitor for slow water movement and consider raised beds for sensitive plants.
A Garden-Ready Climate in Zone 6b
Hardiness zone 6b allows for a generous growing window for staples like corn, beans, and berries. With a soil score of 69.2, your land is better equipped for gardening than the average Missouri county.
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 Montgomery County have?
Montgomery County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 62% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Montgomery County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Montgomery County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Montgomery County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Montgomery County.
What crops or plants grow well in Montgomery County's soil?
Based on Montgomery County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Montgomery County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Montgomery County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Montgomery County
Soil Verdict
Montgomery 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
Montgomery County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Montgomery 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.