Pemiscot County Soil Data
Pemiscot County, Missouri
Avg pH
6.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pemiscot County, Missouri
Neutral Soils of the Bootheel
Pemiscot County features an average soil pH of 6.25, which is more neutral than the Missouri average of 6.09 and close to the national 6.5 ideal. Despite this balanced pH, the county’s overall soil score of 55.0 reflects specific regional challenges. It lacks a formal taxonomic classification in the current data, typical of many complex alluvial areas.
A Gritty, High-Sand Profile
At 34.8% sand, Pemiscot’s soil is much coarser than many northern Missouri counties, balanced by 41.6% silt and 23.6% clay. This high sand content improves drainage through the surface but may require more frequent fertilization. The clay fraction provides enough body to prevent the soil from being purely sandy and unstable.
Low Organic Matter, Average Storage
The county's organic matter is low at 1.70%, falling below the national average of 2.0% and well under the Missouri state average of 4.74%. However, the available water capacity is exactly at the state average of 0.183 in/in. This suggests that while the soil lacks deep carbon reserves, it manages moisture effectively for crop use.
Managing the Subaqueous Water Table
Drainage in Pemiscot is classified as subaqueous, which is common in the low-lying, water-influenced landscapes of the Missouri Bootheel. There is no specific hydrologic group on record, meaning local knowledge of water table fluctuations is vital for success. Farming and building here require a keen understanding of the region's unique water management history.
Hot Season Success in Zone 7b
As one of Missouri’s warmest regions in Zone 7b, Pemiscot is perfect for heat-loving crops like cotton, okra, and melons. The neutral pH of 6.25 means most garden plants will feel right at home without much adjustment. If you add some compost to boost the low organic matter, you will have a highly productive southern garden.
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 Pemiscot County have?
Pemiscot County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 42% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pemiscot County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pemiscot 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 Pemiscot County?
Pemiscot 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 Pemiscot County's soil?
Based on Pemiscot County's Loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Pemiscot County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pemiscot County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pemiscot 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.