Collin County Soil Data
Collin County, Texas
Avg pH
7.8
Texture
Silty clay
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Collin County, Texas
The Heavy Silty Clays of Collin
Collin County features Inceptisols, which are relatively young soils in geologic terms, with a silty clay texture. The average pH is 7.77, making it much more alkaline than the national median of 6.5.
A Clay-Dominant Landscape
With a high clay content of 41.1%, these soils are notoriously sticky when wet and hard when dry. The 36.0% silt and 22.9% sand mix results in excellent nutrient retention but can make physical work challenging.
Rich in Organic Matter
The county excels in fertility with 2.07% organic matter, far surpassing the Texas average of 1.66%. Its available water capacity of 0.152 in/in is among the highest in the region, providing a deep reservoir for crops.
Good Drainage Despite High Clay
Despite the heavy clay, these soils are classified as well drained and fall into hydrologic group B. This combination suggests a moderate infiltration rate that is better than many other clay-heavy counties.
Abundance in Zone 8b
Zone 8b allows for a long growing season for okra, peppers, and ornamental shrubs. Your nutrient-dense soil is ready for a flourishing garden if you manage the heavy clay correctly.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Collin County have?
Collin County's soil is classified as Silty clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 36% silt, and 41% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Collin County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Collin County's soil has a pH of 7.8, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Collin County?
Collin County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Collin County's soil?
Based on Collin County's Silty clay texture, pH of 7.8, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Collin County?
Collin County's dominant soil order is Inceptisols. Inceptisols are young soils with weak horizon development. They occur in a wide range of climates and parent materials.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Collin 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.