Cameron County Soil Data
Cameron County, Texas
Avg pH
7.5
Texture
Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Cameron County, Texas
The Alkaline Soils of the Delta
Cameron County features significantly alkaline soil with an average pH of 7.49, well above the 6.5 national median. This score is also higher than the state average of 7.09, which often requires growers to use acidifying amendments. The overall soil score of 18.4 reflects the unique challenges of this tropical coastal environment.
High Silt and Clay Content
The soil contains 28.7% clay and 30.6% silt, making it feel quite heavy and dense. While the 34.6% sand content helps slightly with texture, this is a soil that holds onto moisture and can become compacted easily. It requires careful management to ensure roots have enough oxygen to thrive.
Lean Organic Levels and Water Storage
Organic matter is relatively low at 1.31%, falling short of the Texas average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.117 in/in is also below the state average of 0.133, meaning the soil holds less usable water for plants. Consistent mulching is a key strategy here to build health and retain every drop of moisture.
Managing Water in Hydrologic Group D
As part of hydrologic group D, this county faces very slow water infiltration and high runoff risks. In the flat terrain of the Rio Grande Valley, this often leads to drainage challenges during tropical rain events. Proper grading and drainage infrastructure are critical for both farming and urban development.
Tropical Possibilities in Zone 10a
Cameron County is one of the few places in the U.S. in Hardiness Zone 10a, allowing for citrus, palms, and tropical fruits. The soil and climate combination is perfect for grapefruit, oranges, and heat-loving bougainvillea. Embrace the valley sun and start your tropical garden today.
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: Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cameron County have?
Cameron County's soil is classified as Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 31% silt, and 29% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cameron County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cameron 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 Cameron County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cameron County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cameron County's soil?
Based on Cameron County's Clay Loam texture, pH of 7.5, 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 Cameron County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cameron County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cameron 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.