Benton County Soil Data
Benton County, Tennessee
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Benton County, Tennessee
Benton’s Silty Ultisols Foundation
Benton County is dominated by Ultisols with a silt loam texture and a pH of 5.49. This pH level is slightly higher than the Tennessee average of 5.35 but remains more acidic than the national 6.5 baseline.
Smooth Texture for Easy Management
The soil composition features 58.9% silt and 21.3% sand, creating a smooth, workable texture. The 19.8% clay content is relatively low, which prevents the heavy, sticky feel common in other parts of the state.
High Water Capacity vs Low Matter
Organic matter is low at 1.34%, falling well behind the state average of 2.44%. However, the soil excels at water storage with an available capacity of 0.178 in/in, providing a safety net for plants during drought.
Slow Drainage Challenges Infiltration
Classified as moderately well drained, the land typically sheds water slowly. It belongs to Hydrologic Group D, which signals very slow infiltration rates that can lead to high runoff during intense Tennessee storms.
Starting Strong in Zone 7b
Benton County's 7b hardiness zone is perfect for heat-tolerant southern favorites like okra and tomatoes. To offset the low organic matter, residents should focus on composting to boost the soil's natural productivity.
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Benton County have?
Benton County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 21% sand, 59% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Benton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Benton County's soil has a low pH of 5.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Benton County?
Benton County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Benton County's soil?
Based on Benton County's Silt loam texture, pH of 5.5, and Moderately well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Benton County?
Benton County's dominant soil order is Ultisols. Ultisols are highly weathered, clay-rich soils common in humid regions. They are low in natural fertility and often require lime and fertilizer for agriculture.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Benton County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Tennessee
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.