Callahan County Soil Data
Callahan County, Texas
Avg pH
7.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Callahan County, Texas
Alkaline Soils of the Plains
Callahan County's soil is notably alkaline, with an average pH of 7.41, much higher than the 6.5 national median. This pH level exceeds the Texas average of 7.09, which can impact how plants absorb iron and phosphorus. Understanding this chemistry is vital for any successful agricultural endeavor in the county.
A Balanced and Silt-Heavy Mix
The soil composition consists of 43.7% sand and 29.1% silt, creating a texture that balances drainage and moisture retention. With 24.6% clay, the soil offers enough structure for stability without becoming as difficult to work as the state's heavy blackland clays. It is a versatile mix that responds well to proper management.
Healthy Organic Matter and Moisture
This county boasts an organic matter content of 1.77%, which is higher than the state average of 1.66%. It also features an impressive available water capacity of 0.139 in/in, surpassing the state benchmark. These numbers point to a soil that is relatively resilient and capable of sustaining growth through dry periods.
High Runoff Potential in Group D
Despite its balanced texture, the county falls into hydrologic group D, signifying low infiltration and high runoff. This suggests that during heavy rain, the soil saturates quickly, leading to water moving across the surface rather than soaking in. Careful terrace management and ground cover are essential to prevent erosion.
Diverse Potential in Zone 8a
In Hardiness Zone 8a, you can grow everything from pecans to hearty summer squash. The soil's great water capacity makes it a strong candidate for native Texas landscaping and vegetable plots. Start your garden journey today and see what this resilient soil can produce.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Callahan County have?
Callahan County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 29% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Callahan County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Callahan County's soil has a pH of 7.4, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Callahan County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Callahan County.
What crops or plants grow well in Callahan County's soil?
Based on Callahan County's Loam texture, pH of 7.4, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Callahan County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Callahan County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Callahan 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.