Webster County Soil Data
Webster County, Missouri
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.7
Texture
Very gravelly silty clay
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
5.5%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Webster County, Missouri
Acidic Entisols define the local landscape
Webster County features Entisols with a pH of 5.74, which is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This very gravelly silty clay land sits below the Missouri average soil score of 64.2, coming in at 57.7.
A silty mix with gravelly texture
The soil is dominated by 59.9% silt and 14.8% clay, creating a medium texture with substantial gravel components. This 19.8% sand mix offers poor workability for delicate plants but provides a rugged base for native vegetation.
High organic matter meets low water capacity
At 5.47%, the organic matter content far exceeds the 2.0% national average and the 4.74% state average. However, the available water capacity of 0.167 in/in is lower than the state's 0.183, meaning moisture drains away quickly.
Excessive drainage creates dry conditions
This land is classified as excessively drained, which prevents root rot but requires frequent irrigation during dry spells. Falling into Hydrologic Group D, the soil presents specific challenges for building foundations and pond retention.
Acid-loving plants thrive in Zone 6b
Gardeners in Hardiness Zone 6b can leverage the rich organic matter to grow blueberries and azaleas that thrive in acidic conditions. Your local landscape is perfect for heat-tolerant perennials and native grasses that enjoy fast-draining earth.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Very gravelly silty clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Webster County have?
Webster County's soil is classified as Very gravelly silty clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 60% silt, and 15% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Webster County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Webster County's soil has a pH of 5.7, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Webster County?
Webster County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Webster County's soil?
Based on Webster County's Very gravelly silty clay texture, pH of 5.7, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Webster County?
Webster 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: Webster County
Soil Verdict
Webster 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
Webster County closely matches the Missouri average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Webster 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.