Ozark County Soil Data
Ozark County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
4.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Ozark County, Missouri
Acidic Foundations in Ozark County
Ozark County has an acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.57, sitting below both the state average of 6.09 and the national median of 6.5. With a soil score of 44.6, the county faces more challenges than many of its Missouri neighbors. These soils often require careful management and pH adjustment for optimal plant health.
Silt and Sand Dominance
The soil composition is primarily 55.5% silt and 27.7% sand, with a relatively low clay content of 12.0%. This mix ensures the soil is easy to till but lacks the heavy nutrient-holding capacity that higher clay soils provide. The high sand percentage allows for decent aeration but can lead to faster drying in the sun.
Moderate Fertility and Low Storage
Organic matter in Ozark County is 4.45%, which is very close to the state average of 4.74% and double the national average. However, the available water capacity is low at 0.138 in/in compared to the state's 0.183 in/in. This means the soil is biologically active but struggles to hold onto water for long periods.
Navigating Subaqueous Drainage Realities
The dominant drainage class is subaqueous, a classification that suggests frequent saturation or poor internal drainage in many areas. Because specific hydrologic group and taxonomic data are missing, local land use requires careful on-site investigation. This is particularly important for anyone planning to build foundations or install septic systems.
Growing in Hardiness Zone 7a
With a 7a hardiness zone, Ozark County gardeners can enjoy a long growing season for peppers, tomatoes, and native wildflowers. The acidic pH is a natural fit for berries and evergreens, making it a great spot for a specialized orchard or forest garden. Use mulch to help preserve moisture in this low-capacity soil and watch your garden thrive.
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 Ozark County have?
Ozark County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 28% sand, 56% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ozark County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ozark 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 Ozark County?
Ozark 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 Ozark County's soil?
Based on Ozark 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 Ozark County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Ozark County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Ozark County
Soil Verdict
Ozark 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
Ozark County is somewhat warmer than the Missouri statewide average. The zone range of 7a-7b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ozark 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.