Bowie County Soil Data
Bowie County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.7
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Bowie County, Texas
Acidic soils of East Texas
Bowie County features a distinctively acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.74. This is much lower than the national 6.5 median and the Texas average of 7.09. Local taxonomic data is limited, but the acidity defines the gardening landscape here.
A silty mix with low clay
The soil composition is 42.7% sand and 30.2% silt, creating a medium-textured base. With only 23.0% clay, these soils are relatively easy to till compared to heavy clay regions. The high silt content helps with nutrient retention despite the lower clay percentage.
High water capacity despite low organic matter
Organic matter levels reach 1.52%, trailing the state average of 1.66%. Even so, the available water capacity is strong at 0.141 in/in, which is higher than the Texas average. This helps plants survive during the humid but hot summers.
Runoff risks in hydrologic group D
Classified in hydrologic group D, these soils have a high runoff potential when thoroughly wet. While specific drainage class data is missing, this group typically indicates restricted water movement through the soil profile. Proper site grading is essential for any building or farming project.
Blueberries and azaleas love zone 8b
The acidic pH makes Bowie County a paradise for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas. Zone 8b allows for a long growing season that supports everything from pine timber to summer squash. Grab a trowel and take advantage of the high water capacity in your backyard.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Bowie County have?
Bowie County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 43% sand, 30% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Bowie County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Bowie County's soil has a pH of 5.7, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Bowie County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Bowie County.
What crops or plants grow well in Bowie County's soil?
Based on Bowie County's Loam texture, pH of 5.7, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Bowie County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Bowie County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Bowie County
Soil Verdict
Bowie County is in USDA hardiness zone 8b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 15°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
Bowie County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Bowie 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.