Brazos County Soil Data
Brazos County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Brazos County, Texas
Acidic sandy soils of the Brazos Valley
Brazos County features an average pH of 6.05, placing it on the acidic side of the scale. This is lower than both the national median and the 7.09 Texas state average. While specific taxonomic data is limited, the acidic nature defines the local nutrient availability.
High sand content drives soil texture
Over half of the soil—50.7%—is sand, mixed with 23.7% silt and 18.8% clay. This high sand percentage ensures the soil is easy to work and doesn't get as bogged down as heavy clay. However, it may struggle to hold onto nutrients as effectively as heavier soils.
Lower organic levels require amendments
Organic matter is relatively low at 1.21%, falling below the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.124 in/in also sits just below the Texas benchmark of 0.133 in/in. Local gardeners often find that adding compost significantly improves soil performance.
Managing high runoff in group D
The soil falls into hydrologic group D, which indicates a high potential for surface runoff. Even with high sand content, the overall soil structure may limit how fast water moves deep into the ground. Proper erosion control is important for maintaining topsoil on sloped land.
Gardening in the 9a heat
Brazos County resides in hardiness zone 9a, offering a very long window for warm-season crops. Melons and sweet potatoes enjoy the sandy texture and the long, hot summers. Regular mulching will help preserve moisture in these sandier, lower-capacity soils.
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
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Brazos County have?
Brazos County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 51% sand, 24% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Brazos County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Brazos County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Brazos County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Brazos County.
What crops or plants grow well in Brazos County's soil?
Based on Brazos County's Loam texture, pH of 6.0, 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 Brazos County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Brazos County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Brazos County
Soil Verdict
Brazos County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. 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
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Brazos County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Brazos 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.