Baylor County Soil Data
Baylor County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.5
Texture
Loamy fine sand
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Baylor County, Texas
Alkaline Alfisols in North Texas
Baylor County is dominated by Alfisols with an average pH of 7.49, reflecting an alkaline nature typical of the region. This pH is higher than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 7.09. These soils are mineral-rich but may require specific adjustments for acid-loving plants.
Loamy Sand with Clay Influence
The soil contains 39.2% sand, 32.8% silt, and 28.0% clay, categorizing it as a loamy fine sand. This blend provides significant structural stability and better nutrient retention than purely sandy soils. Farmers find the medium texture manageable for a variety of row crops.
Balanced Moisture and Organic Matter
Baylor’s organic matter content of 1.60% is nearly identical to the state average of 1.66%. Interestingly, the available water capacity of 0.143 in/in is higher than the state average of 0.133, helping plants survive dry spells. This makes the county more resilient to drought compared to its neighbors.
Moderate Drainage for Group C
Classified as moderately well drained, these soils sit in hydrologic group C. Water moves through the profile at a controlled pace, reducing the risk of rapid leaching but increasing potential for surface runoff. This makes it important to manage drainage carefully in residential development.
Hardy Crops for Zone 8a
The zone 8a climate is perfect for cotton, wheat, and hardy vegetables like squash. The slightly higher water capacity gives gardeners a buffer during the hot North Texas summers. Start your backyard plot with confidence, knowing the soil holds moisture well.
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loamy fine sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Sandy Soil Detected
Sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out. These products boost water retention and organic matter.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Baylor County have?
Baylor County's soil is classified as Loamy fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 39% sand, 33% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Baylor County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Baylor County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Baylor County?
Baylor 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 Baylor County's soil?
Based on Baylor County's Loamy fine sand texture, pH of 7.5, and Moderately 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 Baylor County?
Baylor 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Baylor County
Soil Verdict
Baylor County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Baylor County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Baylor 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.