Hidalgo County Soil Data
Hidalgo County, New Mexico
Avg pH
7.7
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
0.8%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Hidalgo County, New Mexico
Dominant Desert Aridisols
Aridisols define this landscape, reflecting a true desert environment with an alkaline pH of 7.74. This level is much higher than the national 6.5 median and the 7.48 state average.
Silty Clay Loam Balance
The silty clay loam texture features 44.5% sand and 21.2% clay. This mix offers a decent balance of workability and moisture retention for desert farming compared to sandier areas.
Thirsty Soil Profile
Organic matter is low at 0.83%, falling well below the state average of 1.27%. However, the water capacity of 0.131 in/in remains slightly above the state norm, helping plants survive dry spells.
Fast-Draining Desert Soils
This well-drained soil moves water away from roots effectively but remains prone to runoff under Hydrologic Group D. It is an ideal profile for crops that dislike 'wet feet' but need consistent irrigation.
Heat-Lovers in Zone 8a
Hardiness Zone 8a allows for a long season of heat-loving crops like melons and okra. Focus on heavy mulching to compensate for the low organic matter and high evaporation rates.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Hidalgo County have?
Hidalgo County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 33% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hidalgo County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hidalgo County's soil has a pH of 7.7, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Hidalgo County?
Hidalgo 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 Hidalgo County's soil?
Based on Hidalgo County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 7.7, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Hidalgo County?
Hidalgo County's dominant soil order is Aridisols. Aridisols are soils of dry environments with low organic matter. They often have salt or calcium carbonate accumulations at depth.
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Other Counties in New Mexico
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.