Nodaway County Soil Data
Nodaway County, Missouri
Avg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.4%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Nodaway County, Missouri
The Rich Mollisols of Nodaway
Nodaway County is defined by Mollisols, the dark and fertile prairie soils that power the American breadbasket. Its average pH of 6.31 sits comfortably near the national median of 6.5 and exceeds the Missouri average of 6.09. These characteristics earn the county a high soil score of 76.7, reflecting its superior agricultural potential.
Silty Clay Loam Structure
The soil is a silty clay loam, comprised of 53.5% silt and a significant 28.0% clay. This high clay content provides excellent nutrient retention but can make the ground heavy and slow to warm in the spring. With only 18.5% sand, the soil remains stable but requires mindful management to avoid compaction.
Superior Water Storage Capacity
Nodaway County excels in water storage, with an available water capacity of 0.204 in/in, well above the state average of 0.183 in/in. Although its 3.38% organic matter is lower than the state average of 4.74%, it remains higher than the national average of 2.0%. This combination creates a resilient environment for row crops even during dry spells.
Well-Drained Soils for Efficient Farming
The land is characterized as well-drained, allowing water to move through the profile at an ideal rate for plant health. It falls into hydrologic group C, suggesting a somewhat slow infiltration rate when the soil is thoroughly wet. This profile is generally favorable for both large-scale agriculture and residential building projects.
A Heartland Garden in Zone 5b
In USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, Nodaway County is a powerhouse for corn, soybeans, and hearty cool-weather vegetables. The high available water capacity makes it an excellent spot for deep-rooted perennials and fruit trees. If you enjoy gardening, these rich prairie soils offer one of the best growing foundations in the state.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Nodaway County have?
Nodaway County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 54% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Nodaway County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Nodaway 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 Nodaway County?
Nodaway 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 Nodaway County's soil?
Based on Nodaway County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Nodaway County?
Nodaway County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Nodaway 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.