Cherokee County Soil Data
Cherokee County, Oklahoma
Avg pH
4.9
Texture
Water
Drainage
Subaqueous
Organic Matter
7.9%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Cherokee County, Oklahoma
Highly acidic and unique soils
Cherokee County soil is quite acidic with a pH of 4.92, well below the state average of 6.06 and the national median of 6.5. This low pH level is characteristic of woodland or wetland environments and will require significant lime for traditional row crops. Despite the acidity, the soil supports a distinct and specialized ecosystem.
Silt-dominated profile for nutrient capture
Silt makes up 40.7% of the soil, providing a smooth texture that is excellent at holding nutrients. With only 20.8% sand and 15.2% clay, the soil is less prone to the grittiness of western Oklahoma lands. This silty composition creates a fertile environment for native plants adapted to acidic conditions.
Exceptional organic matter levels
The organic matter content is a massive 7.86%, which is nearly four times the national average and over four times the state average. This high level indicates a rich, biologically active soil that is excellent for plant nutrition. However, the available water capacity is 0.131 in/in, suggesting the soil drains more quickly than its organic richness implies.
Subaqueous drainage and slow infiltration
Classified as subaqueous with a Hydrologic Group D rating, this soil is often saturated or associated with shallow water tables. It has very slow infiltration rates, meaning it does not absorb heavy rainfall quickly. These conditions are better suited for wetland preservation or specialized silviculture than for standard basement construction.
Acid-loving plants thrive in 7b
In hardiness zone 7b, this county is a paradise for acid-loving plants like blueberries, azaleas, and hydrangeas. The high organic matter provides a natural boost for forest-style gardening and native plant restoration. If you want to grow vegetables, focus on raised beds or use lime to bring the pH closer to neutral.
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
Subaqueous
Drainage class: Subaqueous
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Water
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cherokee County have?
Cherokee County's soil is classified as Water. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 21% sand, 41% silt, and 15% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Cherokee County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cherokee County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Cherokee County?
Cherokee 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 Cherokee County's soil?
Based on Cherokee County's Water texture, pH of 4.9, and Subaqueous, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas.
What USDA soil order is found in Cherokee County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cherokee County is not currently available in our dataset.
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Other Counties in Oklahoma
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.