Pushmataha County Soil Data
Pushmataha County, Oklahoma
Avg pH
5.3
Texture
Water
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.0%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Pushmataha County, Oklahoma
Acidic Sands of the Southeast
Pushmataha County has a very acidic average pH of 5.32, which is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. This low pH is characteristic of the region’s heavily leached soils and high rainfall. While data on taxonomic order is limited, the acidic profile is a primary constraint for local agriculture.
Sand-Dominant Soil Profiles
The soil is dominated by sand at 50.4%, with 28.2% silt and 14.4% clay. This high sand content creates a very loose, porous texture that allows for fast initial water entry but poor long-term retention. It is generally low in natural nutrients because they wash through the coarse grains easily.
Low Organic Matter and Water Storage
Organic matter is quite low at 1.03%, well below the state average of 1.72%. Additionally, the available water capacity of 0.129 in/in is lower than the Oklahoma average of 0.144 in/in. These factors contribute to the county's low soil score of 14.6, reflecting the challenges for intensive farming.
High Runoff Despite Sandy Texture
Despite the high sand content, the county is categorized in hydrologic group D, indicating high runoff potential during heavy rains. This often occurs because of shallow bedrock or restrictive layers beneath the sandy surface. Effective water management is critical to prevent erosion in this hilly terrain.
Timber and Pine in Zone 8a
Pushmataha County is in the warm 8a hardiness zone, making it ideal for southern pines and acid-loving forestry. The sandy, acidic soil is better suited for timber and specialized fruit like blackberries than for typical row crops. Use raised beds with imported soil to have the most success with a vegetable 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: Water
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pushmataha County have?
Pushmataha County's soil is classified as Water. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 50% sand, 28% silt, and 14% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Pushmataha County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pushmataha County's soil has a low pH of 5.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Pushmataha County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pushmataha County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pushmataha County's soil?
Based on Pushmataha County's Water texture, pH of 5.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas.
What USDA soil order is found in Pushmataha County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pushmataha County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pushmataha 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.