Ripley County Soil Data
Ripley County, Missouri
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
15.8%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Ripley County, Missouri
Tangy Soils of the Ozark Edge
Ripley County features silty clay loam Entisols that lean heavily toward the acidic side with an average pH of 5.46. This is significantly more acidic than the state average of 6.09 and the national median of 6.5. These conditions often favor specific native species that thrive in lower pH environments.
Silts and Sands Dominate the Mix
The soil composition is 44.3% silt and 23.7% sand, creating a textured earth that resists heavy compaction better than pure clay. With only 10.4% clay content, the soil feels lighter in the hand and is generally easy to work during the planting season. This mix provides a stable base for both agriculture and construction.
High Organic Levels vs Lower Capacity
With a massive 15.76% organic matter content, these soils are far richer in decomposed material than the 4.74% state average. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.137 in/in is below the state average of 0.183, suggesting a need for regular watering. The high fertility provides a boost for vegetative growth if moisture is managed correctly.
Well Drained with Group C Runoff
Ripley's soil is well drained, which prevents the drowning of plant roots during typical rainfall events. The hydrologic group C designation indicates a somewhat slow rate of water transmission when the ground is fully soaked. This creates a landscape that sheds water effectively but requires attention to moisture retention in garden beds.
Warm Starts in Zone 7a
Being in hardiness zone 7a allows for a longer growing season compared to much of northern Missouri. This climate, combined with high organic matter, is perfect for tomatoes, peppers, and southern-adapted fruit varieties. Don't let the 50.2 soil score discourage you; with a bit of lime to balance the pH, your garden can flourish.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ripley County have?
Ripley County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 44% silt, and 10% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ripley County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ripley County's soil has a low pH of 5.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Ripley County?
Ripley 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 Ripley County's soil?
Based on Ripley County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Ripley County?
Ripley 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ripley 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.