Oregon County Soil Data
Oregon County, Missouri
Avg pH
5.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
16.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Oregon County, Missouri
Highly Acidic Ozark Soil
Oregon County features a very acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.41, falling well below the Missouri average of 6.09. While taxonomic data is limited, the overall soil score of 46.6 highlights significant chemical challenges for traditional crop production. This level of acidity usually requires heavy liming to unlock the soil's full biological potential.
Low-Clay, Silt-Sand Mix
The soil composition is 45.2% silt and 21.2% sand, but it contains only 10.0% clay. This low clay percentage means the soil has limited natural ability to hold onto chemical nutrients compared to heavier Missouri soils. However, the high sand and silt mix creates a light texture that is easy to dig and cultivate.
Extreme Organic Matter Levels
Oregon County reports an extraordinary 16.79% organic matter, nearly four times the Missouri average of 4.74%. Despite this richness, the available water capacity is quite low at 0.126 in/in, trailing the state benchmark of 0.183 in/in. Plants here benefit from massive nutrient reserves but may struggle during periods of low rainfall.
Subaqueous Drainage and Saturation
The dominant drainage class is subaqueous, which often points to areas with persistent saturation or poor vertical water movement. Lacking specific hydrologic group data, land users must be cautious of potential flooding or ponding in low-lying sections. This drainage profile suggests that raised beds or specialized tiling may be necessary for most gardening projects.
Success in Zone 7a
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, Oregon County is a prime location for native woodland plants and acid-thriving species like hydrangeas. The high organic matter provides a wonderful head start for any organic gardener willing to monitor moisture levels closely. Start your Ozark garden today by embracing this carbon-rich, unique soil profile.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Oregon County have?
Oregon County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 21% sand, 45% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Oregon County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Oregon County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Oregon County?
Oregon 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 Oregon County's soil?
Based on Oregon County's Loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Subaqueous, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Oregon County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Oregon County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Oregon 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.