Pittsburg County Soil Data
Pittsburg County, Oklahoma
Avg pH
5.2
Texture
Gravelly sandy loam
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Pittsburg County, Oklahoma
Acidic Inceptisols in the Uplands
Pittsburg County is dominated by Inceptisols with a quite acidic average pH of 5.24. This is much lower than the national median of 6.5 and requires significant management for traditional gardening. These are relatively young soils that still retain many of the characteristics of their parent bedrock.
Gravelly Sandy Loam Texture
The dominant texture here is a gravelly sandy loam, consisting of 39.7% sand, 32.2% silt, and 17.1% clay. The presence of gravel and high sand content makes the soil feel gritty and very loose. This coarse texture means it doesn't hold nutrients as well as silty or clay-heavy soils.
Lower Organic Matter and Fair Capacity
Organic matter content is low at 1.45%, falling below the state average of 1.72%. Despite the gravelly texture, the available water capacity is a decent 0.148 in/in, slightly above the state average. This provides a small buffer against drought, though the low organic matter limits overall nutrient availability.
Fast Drainage with Low Runoff
Unlike many neighbors, these soils are 'excessively drained' and belong to hydrologic group B. This means water moves through the profile quickly, reducing the risk of surface ponding but increasing the need for frequent irrigation. It is an ideal profile for building foundations due to the lack of swelling clays.
Hardy Options for Zone 7b
In the warmer hardiness zone 7b, the acidic and gravelly soil favors timber, native pines, and berries. The low soil score of 22.4 reflects the challenges of farming this rocky terrain without amendments. Gardeners should focus on native plants or raised beds to overcome the high acidity.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Gravelly sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pittsburg County have?
Pittsburg County's soil is classified as Gravelly sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 32% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pittsburg County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pittsburg County's soil has a low pH of 5.2, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Pittsburg County?
Pittsburg 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 Pittsburg County's soil?
Based on Pittsburg County's Gravelly sandy loam texture, pH of 5.2, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Pittsburg County?
Pittsburg County's dominant soil order is Inceptisols. Inceptisols are young soils with weak horizon development. They occur in a wide range of climates and parent materials.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pittsburg County on LawnByCounty.com →
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.