Bastrop County Soil Data
Bastrop County, Texas
Avg pH
6.9
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Bastrop County, Texas
Neutral Loams of Bastrop
Bastrop County is home to Alfisols, which are generally productive soils with a balanced pH of 6.87. This reading is very close to the national median of 6.5 and slightly more acidic than the Texas average of 7.09. This neutral profile supports a wide variety of plant life without extensive lime or sulfur treatments.
Fine Sandy Loam Texture
With a mix of 51.0% sand, 26.1% silt, and 23.0% clay, the soil is classified as a fine sandy loam. This texture offers a perfect middle ground for easy workability and decent moisture retention. It provides enough clay to hold nutrients while the sand ensures roots can breathe.
Standard Fertility and Water Retention
The organic matter content sits at 1.43%, which is slightly lower than the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity matches the Texas average exactly at 0.133 in/in. While it isn't the most fertile soil in the state, it remains a reliable medium for agriculture with basic management.
Well Drained with Slow Infiltration
The county's soils are well drained, yet they belong to hydrologic group C, suggesting slow infiltration rates when saturated. This means while the soil manages water well under normal conditions, it can become a runoff risk during flash floods. It is a stable choice for building and infrastructure in most areas.
Gardening in Hardiness Zone 9a
Zone 9a offers a warm climate where citrus, figs, and heat-loving herbs thrive in the sandy loam. The soil’s balance makes it easy to start a garden that produces year-round. You can expect great results with tomatoes and peppers in these neutral, well-behaved soils.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Bastrop County have?
Bastrop County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 51% sand, 26% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Bastrop County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Bastrop County's soil has a pH of 6.9, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Bastrop County?
Bastrop 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 Bastrop County's soil?
Based on Bastrop County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 6.9, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Bastrop County?
Bastrop County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bastrop 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.