Shelby County Soil Data
Shelby County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Shelby County, Missouri
Prime Soil Conditions in Shelby
Shelby County boasts a robust soil score of 76.9, far outpacing the Missouri average of 64.2. Its average pH of 6.39 is nearly identical to the national median of 6.5, creating a balanced chemical environment for most crops.
A Silty Foundation for Growth
The soil contains a heavy concentration of silt at 59.5%, balanced by 21.1% clay and 18.8% sand. This mixture offers high workability while providing enough clay to hold onto essential plant nutrients.
Superior Water Retention Capabilities
At 0.208 in/in, the available water capacity exceeds the state average of 0.183, offering plants a significant buffer against dry spells. While organic matter sits at 2.68%, which is lower than the state average, it remains well above the national average of 2.0%.
Understanding the Subaqueous Landscape
The county's soil is classified as subaqueous, suggesting it stays saturated for significant portions of the year. Specific taxonomic and hydrologic group data remain unclassified, indicating a unique local profile that requires careful moisture management.
Cold-Hardy Crops Thrive Here
Located in Hardiness Zone 6a, Shelby County is ideal for growing staples like corn, soybeans, and hardy perennials. The combination of high water capacity and neutral pH makes this an excellent place to establish a productive home 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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Shelby County have?
Shelby County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 59% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Shelby County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Shelby County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Shelby County?
Shelby 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 Shelby County's soil?
Based on Shelby County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Shelby County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Shelby County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Shelby County
Soil Verdict
Shelby 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
Shelby County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Shelby 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.