Pulaski County Soil Data
Pulaski County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Gravelly silty clay
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
4.8%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Pulaski County, Missouri
Gravelly Ozark Entisols in Pulaski
Pulaski County features acidic Entisols with a pH of 5.64, significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. The dominant texture is a gravelly silty clay, reflecting the rugged and stony terrain of the Ozarks. These young soils are still developing and provide a unique growing environment.
Gritty Texture and Solid Structure
The soil is composed of 58.4% silt and 22.3% sand, providing a gritty texture that balances drainage with structural stability. A clay content of 13.6% adds enough body to hold nutrients without making the soil too heavy to dig. This mixture is well-suited for a variety of hardy plant species.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter is a major strength at 4.84%, beating the state average and more than doubling the national average of 2.0%. Despite this richness, the water capacity of 0.157 in/in is lower than the Missouri average. This means that while the soil is fertile, it may require more frequent watering.
Well Drained with Slow Infiltration
These soils are classified as well drained but belong to hydrologic group C, indicating a slow infiltration rate when fully wet. This combination is excellent for preventing root rot while still managing runoff during heavy rains. It is a reliable profile for both farming and building.
Hardy Growing in Zone 6b
Zone 6b weather paired with high organic matter makes Pulaski ideal for native Missouri wildflowers and berry bushes. These plants are well-adapted to gravelly, acidic conditions. Start your planting project today to take advantage of these naturally rich, well-drained soils.
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: Gravelly silty clay
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 Pulaski County have?
Pulaski County's soil is classified as Gravelly silty clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 58% silt, and 14% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Pulaski County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pulaski 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 Pulaski County?
Pulaski 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 Pulaski County's soil?
Based on Pulaski County's Gravelly silty clay texture, pH of 5.6, 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 Pulaski County?
Pulaski County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pulaski County
Soil Verdict
Pulaski County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. 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
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Pulaski County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pulaski 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.