Angelina County Soil Data
Angelina County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.2
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Angelina County, Texas
Highly Acidic East Texas Soil
Angelina County features very acidic soil with an average pH of 5.20, far below the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 7.09. This acidity level is characteristic of the Piney Woods region and dictates what can grow here. Soil amendments like lime are often necessary for traditional vegetable gardening.
Sandy Loam Characteristics
The mix consists of 57.2% sand, 25.2% silt, and only 12.7% clay. This low clay content means the soil is less prone to shrinking and swelling but has a lower ability to hold onto fertilizers. It provides a loose, workable medium for root development.
Challenges in Nutrient Retention
Organic matter is low at 1.23%, falling short of the 1.66% state average. The available water capacity is 0.125 in/in, which is also below the Texas benchmark of 0.133. Regular additions of organic material are vital to improve the soil's health and productivity.
Managed Water Flow
The soil is categorized in Hydrologic Group D, indicating it has a high potential for runoff during heavy East Texas rains. While the sandy topsoil feels permeable, the overall landscape restricts water movement into the deeper ground. Managing drainage is a key priority for local property owners.
Thriving in Zone 9a
As a Zone 9a region, Angelina County enjoys mild winters and a long growing season. Acid-loving plants like camellias and southern magnolias find a perfect home in these soils. You can build a lush landscape by leaning into the naturally low pH and high heat of the area.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.2. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Angelina County have?
Angelina County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 25% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Angelina County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Angelina 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 Angelina County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Angelina County.
What crops or plants grow well in Angelina County's soil?
Based on Angelina County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.2, and drainage class, 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 Angelina County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Angelina County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Angelina County
Soil Verdict
Angelina County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Angelina County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average. The zone range of 8b-9a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Angelina County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Texas
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.