Bailey County Soil Data
Bailey County, Texas
Avg pH
7.8
Texture
Fine sand
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Bailey County, Texas
Alkaline Sands of the Panhandle
Bailey County features an average pH of 7.76, making it significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This high pH level often influences nutrient availability in the dominant fine sand textures found here. While the taxonomic order is not specified in current records, the soil remains distinct for its high mineral content.
A Sandy Foundation in Bailey
The soil composition is heavily skewed toward sand at 62.2%, with 20.1% silt and 17.7% clay. This high sand content ensures the ground is easy to work but requires frequent attention to maintain moisture. Gardeners find that this mix provides little natural resistance to root growth.
Modest Organic Matter and Water Capacity
With an organic matter content of 1.39%, the county falls below the Texas state average of 1.66% and the national 2.0% benchmark. The available water capacity (AWC) sits at 0.130 in/in, slightly trailing the state average of 0.133. These levels suggest that supplemental irrigation and organic amendments are vital for high yields.
Rapid Drainage for Arid Landscapes
The soil is classified as excessively drained and belongs to hydrologic group A, which means water moves through it very quickly. This rapid movement prevents pooling but can lead to nutrient leaching if not managed carefully. Construction projects benefit from these dry conditions, though landscaping requires drought-tolerant species.
Tough Plants for Zone 7a
Bailey County sits in USDA hardiness zone 7a, where extremes in temperature and sandy soil favor resilient varieties. Grapes and heat-tolerant vegetables like peppers thrive here with consistent watering. Start your garden with native species that appreciate the well-drained, alkaline environment.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Bailey County have?
Bailey County's soil is classified as Fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 62% sand, 20% silt, and 18% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Bailey County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Bailey County's soil has a pH of 7.8, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Bailey County?
Bailey County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Bailey County's soil?
Based on Bailey County's Fine sand texture, pH of 7.8, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists.
What USDA soil order is found in Bailey County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Bailey County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bailey 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.