Cherokee County Soil Data
Cherokee County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Cherokee County, Texas
Classic East Texas Acidic Sands
Cherokee County has an average soil pH of 5.59, which is notably acidic compared to the national median of 6.5. This acidity is typical for the region and falls below the Texas state average of 7.09. Gardeners here often need to add lime to balance the pH for traditional vegetable crops.
High Sand Content Dominates
With 64.9% sand, the soil here is very coarse and allows for easy root expansion. Silt makes up 20.5% and clay only 14.6%, which means the soil is easy to work but doesn't hold nutrients as well as heavier mixes. This high sand percentage is a defining characteristic of the local landscape.
Lean Organic Matter and Water Storage
Organic matter is relatively low at 1.23%, sitting below the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.122 in/in is also lower than the Texas average of 0.133 in/in. Frequent organic amendments and consistent mulching are necessary to keep these sandy soils productive during hot summers.
Slow Infiltration Despite Sand
Surprisingly, the soil is classified in hydrologic group D, indicating high runoff potential despite the high sand content. This often occurs when a restrictive clay layer sits beneath the sandy surface. Effective water management is crucial to prevent erosion on sloped East Texas terrain.
Endless Potential in Zone 8b
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, Cherokee County supports a wide variety of southern staples. Roses and fruit trees, particularly peaches, thrive in this climate and sandy texture. With a bit of extra organic matter, your garden can become a lush, productive retreat.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cherokee County have?
Cherokee County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 65% sand, 21% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cherokee County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cherokee County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Cherokee County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cherokee County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cherokee County's soil?
Based on Cherokee County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.6, 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 Cherokee County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cherokee County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Cherokee County
Soil Verdict
Cherokee 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
Cherokee County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cherokee 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.