Ralls County Soil Data
Ralls County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Ralls County, Missouri
Productive Silty Clay Loams in Ralls
Ralls County soils are predominantly silty clay loams within the Entisols order, sporting a healthy pH of 6.34. This level is very close to the national median of 6.5, making the ground highly accessible for various plant species. It is among the more productive soil types in northeast Missouri.
Silt-Heavy Soils for Stable Farming
A high silt percentage of 64.7% dominates the profile, supported by 21.2% clay and 14.0% sand. This mixture offers excellent workability while retaining the stability needed for large-scale farming and gardening. The low sand content ensures that the soil stays cohesive and nutrient-rich.
Leading the State in Water Capacity
Organic matter measures 2.52%, which is comfortably above the national 2.0% average. The available water capacity is a high 0.207 in/in, significantly outperforming the Missouri state average of 0.183 in/in. This makes the county exceptionally resilient against dry weather patterns.
Reliable Drainage and Moisture Control
These well-drained soils belong to hydrologic group C, offering a great balance between water retention and runoff prevention. Such traits are ideal for maintaining consistent moisture levels for row crops or home gardens. It provides a predictable environment for land development.
A Versatile Climate in Zone 6a
Zone 6a provides a versatile climate for growing everything from orchard fruits to summer squash. Utilize this high water capacity soil to build a thriving and resilient garden this season. The balanced pH ensures that your vegetables will have all the nutrients they need.
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
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ralls County have?
Ralls County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 14% sand, 65% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ralls County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ralls 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 Ralls County?
Ralls 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 Ralls County's soil?
Based on Ralls 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 Ralls County?
Ralls 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: Ralls County
Soil Verdict
Ralls County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Ralls County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ralls 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.