Pontotoc County Soil Data
Pontotoc County, Oklahoma
Avg pH
6.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Pontotoc County, Oklahoma
Balanced pH in Central Oklahoma
Pontotoc County has an average pH of 6.17, making it slightly more alkaline than the state average of 6.06. While still below the national median of 6.5, this level is generally considered good for most regional agriculture. This chemical balance supports a wide variety of forage and crop types.
High Sand Content for Ease of Work
The soil is relatively sandy, with sand making up 46.6% of the mix alongside 31.3% silt and 20.0% clay. This high sand percentage ensures the soil is easy to till and doesn't get as sticky as clay-heavy soils when wet. However, the 20% clay provides enough body to help retain some essential nutrients.
Meeting State Benchmarks for Growth
The organic matter content is 1.73%, which perfectly aligns with the Oklahoma state average of 1.72%. With an available water capacity of 0.148 in/in, the soil holds slightly more moisture than the state average of 0.144 in/in. These factors contribute to a healthy soil score of 44.0.
Slow Infiltration and Drainage Limits
The county is primarily categorized in hydrologic group D, which indicates a very slow rate of water infiltration. Even with the high sand content, the overall soil structure tends to shed water as runoff during heavy storms. This requires careful management of slopes to prevent topsoil loss during the spring.
Thriving Gardens in Zone 7b
Located in zone 7b, the county enjoys a long growing season that is excellent for heat-loving crops like okra and sweet potatoes. The sandy soil warms up quickly in the spring, giving gardeners an early start on the season. It is a great 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
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
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pontotoc County have?
Pontotoc County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 47% sand, 31% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pontotoc County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pontotoc County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Pontotoc County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pontotoc County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pontotoc County's soil?
Based on Pontotoc County's Loam texture, pH of 6.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Pontotoc County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pontotoc County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pontotoc 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.