Morgan County Soil Data
Morgan County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.1
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Morgan County, Missouri
Classic Missouri Soil Acidity
Morgan County's soil has a pH of 6.07, nearly identical to the Missouri state average of 6.09. This level of acidity is typical for the region, though it is more acidic than the 6.5 national median.
One of Missouri's Siltiest Soils
The soil is remarkably silty at 66.9%, which is one of the highest concentrations in the state. This is balanced by 17.9% clay and a low 13.5% sand content, resulting in a smooth, fine-textured earth.
Above-Average Water Storage
The available water capacity of 0.197 in/in is higher than the state average, helping plants survive during hot summers. Organic matter clocks in at 2.30%, exceeding the 2.0% national average.
Saturated Ground and Subaqueous Soils
The dominant drainage class is subaqueous, indicating that parts of the landscape are naturally prone to holding water. This hydrology is better suited for moisture-tolerant plants than for projects requiring dry, stable soil.
Easy Digging in Zone 6b
Located in zone 6b, the county is an ideal spot for starting a garden full of native wildflowers or hardy vegetables. The high silt content makes digging easy, so grab your tools and get outside today.
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
Subaqueous
Drainage class: Subaqueous
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 Morgan County have?
Morgan County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 13% sand, 67% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Morgan County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Morgan 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 Morgan County?
Morgan County has a dominant drainage class of "Subaqueous." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Morgan County's soil?
Based on Morgan County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.1, and Subaqueous, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Morgan County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Morgan County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Morgan County
Soil Verdict
Morgan 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
Morgan County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Morgan 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.