Borden County Soil Data
Borden County, Texas
Avg pH
7.7
Texture
Very gravelly sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Borden County, Texas
Alkaline Aridisols define the Borden landscape
Borden County features very gravelly sandy loam classified as Aridisols, typical of dry regions. The average pH reaches 7.73, making it significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the Texas average of 7.09. This mineral-rich profile reflects a desert-like soil history.
A balanced mix of sand and clay
The soil contains 45.7% sand, 28.1% silt, and 25.1% clay. This composition offers a stable structure that resists compaction while maintaining enough texture for root penetration. It balances drainage capabilities with enough clay to hold essential nutrients.
Modest organic matter with strong water storage
Organic matter sits at 1.59%, which is slightly below the Texas average of 1.66% and the national 2.0% benchmark. However, the available water capacity of 0.141 in/in surpasses the state average of 0.133 in/in. This means the soil efficiently captures and holds the limited rainfall common to the region.
Well-drained soils favor deep-rooted plants
Classified as well-drained and belonging to hydrologic group A, these soils allow water to move quickly through the profile. This reduces the risk of surface ponding and makes the area suitable for construction and drought-tolerant crops. Farmers must manage irrigation carefully to prevent rapid moisture loss.
Start your zone 8a garden today
With a USDA hardiness zone of 8a, this soil supports hardy native grasses and drought-resistant shrubs. Succulents and Mediterranean herbs thrive in the well-drained, alkaline conditions. Consider adding compost to boost organic levels and jumpstart your home harvest.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Very gravelly sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Borden County have?
Borden County's soil is classified as Very gravelly sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 28% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Borden County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Borden 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 Borden County?
Borden 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 Borden County's soil?
Based on Borden County's Very gravelly sandy 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 Borden County?
Borden 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Borden 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.