Muskogee County Soil Data

Muskogee County, Oklahoma

Avg pH

5.6

Texture

Silt loam

Drainage

Well drained

Organic Matter

1.6%

Hydrologic Group

C

Data Story

About Soil in Muskogee County, Oklahoma

Productive Silt Loams in Muskogee

Muskogee County features Entisols with a dominant silt loam texture and an average pH of 5.60. While this is more acidic than the national median of 6.5, these soils are often quite productive with proper management. Entisols represent young soils that still retain much of the mineral character of their parent material.

High Silt Content for Better Texture

The soil profile is 37.3% silt, 35.6% sand, and 17.3% clay, creating a smooth, workable silt loam. This high silt fraction makes the soil feel floury to the touch and provides excellent surface area for nutrient exchange. It balances drainage and retention better than more sandy neighbors.

Strong Water Capacity for Dry Spells

The available water capacity of 0.152 in/in is higher than the Oklahoma state average of 0.144 in/in. Organic matter sits at 1.59%, which provides a solid baseline for biological activity in the soil. These factors combine to give Muskogee a resilient foundation for agriculture during hot Oklahoma summers.

Well-Drained Land with Moderate Runoff

Most of the county is well-drained but falls into hydrologic group C, suggesting somewhat slow infiltration when wet. This means while the soil usually stays aerated, heavy rain can lead to significant surface runoff. Proper terracing or cover cropping is recommended to protect the topsoil from erosion.

Abundant Growth in Zone 7b

Muskogee’s climate and silt-rich soil are perfect for growing corn, soybeans, and lush ornamental gardens. The 7b hardiness zone provides a long frost-free window for tomatoes and peppers to reach their full potential. Grab a shovel and start planting to take advantage of this fertile river-valley region.

Soil Composition

Silt loam
Sand: 35.6%
Silt: 37.3%
Clay: 17.3%
Silt loam

Soil pH

5.6pH
5.59982214210167
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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.

Runoff potential:Moderate-High

Drainage Class

Well drained

Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Silt loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Muskogee County have?

Muskogee County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 37% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Muskogee County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Muskogee County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Muskogee County?

Muskogee 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 Muskogee County's soil?

Based on Muskogee County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.6, 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 Muskogee County?

Muskogee 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.

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.