Newton County Soil Data
Newton County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
6.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Newton County, Missouri
Newton’s Acidic Soil Foundation
Newton County features a distinctly acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.62, which is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. While local taxonomic records are limited, the soil score of 54.3 suggests a landscape that requires careful amendment for most traditional crops. This acidity can lock away essential nutrients, making lime applications a common necessity for local growers.
Silt-Heavy Texture Drives Workability
The county's soil consists of 60.3% silt and 16.8% sand, creating a smooth texture that is generally easy to work with tools. With 15.4% clay, the soil maintains enough structure to hold some nutrients without becoming impossibly sticky when wet. This balanced blend provides a versatile base for various land uses, provided the acidity is managed.
Rich Organic Matter, Moderate Thirst
Newton County boasts an impressive 6.37% organic matter, far exceeding the Missouri state average of 4.74%. However, the available water capacity of 0.156 in/in is lower than the state benchmark of 0.183 in/in. This means the soil is biologically rich but may require supplemental irrigation during dry Ozark summers.
Managing Subaqueous Drainage Challenges
The dominant drainage is classified as subaqueous, suggesting that certain areas may face persistent saturation or high water tables. Because specific hydrologic group data is unavailable, local developers and farmers should prioritize site-specific drainage tests. This classification often indicates limitations for traditional basement construction or heavy farming machinery in low-lying spots.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 7a
Sitting in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, Newton County is ideal for growing blueberries, azaleas, and other acid-loving plants that thrive in its 5.62 pH soil. Gardeners can also succeed with hardy greens and root vegetables if they manage the soil's moderate water-holding capacity. Grab a shovel and start a garden that celebrates this unique Ozark chemistry.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Newton County have?
Newton County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 60% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Newton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Newton County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Newton County?
Newton 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 Newton County's soil?
Based on Newton County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 5.6, 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 Newton County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Newton County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Newton County
Soil Verdict
Newton County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Newton County is somewhat warmer than the Missouri statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Newton 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.