Cottle County Soil Data
Cottle County, Texas
Avg pH
7.6
Texture
Very fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.1%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Cottle County, Texas
The Young Entisols of Cottle County
Dominant Entisols in Cottle County show little profile development, representing geologically 'young' soil. The average pH is 7.56, which is considerably more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. These soils reflect the arid environment and mineral-rich parent materials of the Rolling Plains.
Working with Very Fine Sandy Loam
The soil is classified as a very fine sandy loam, consisting of 51.9% sand and 19.6% clay. This high sand percentage makes the soil exceptionally easy to till and work by hand. The fine texture of the sand provides a smoother feel than coarser soils while maintaining excellent aeration.
Efficient Water Storage in Arid Lands
Cottle County has an organic matter content of 1.14%, trailing the state average of 1.66%. Despite lower organic levels, the available water capacity of 0.136 in/in is higher than the Texas average of 0.133 in/in. This ability to hold onto moisture is a critical advantage for local agriculture in a dry climate.
Rapid Infiltration in Well-Drained Soil
These soils are well-drained and belong to hydrologic group A, which has the highest infiltration rates and lowest runoff potential. Water moves quickly through the profile, making it an excellent choice for deep-rooted crops and stable building foundations. This rapid drainage also means that nutrients can leach away more quickly than in heavier soils.
Growing Success in Zone 8a
In hardiness zone 8a, Cottle County gardeners can find success with heat-hardy crops like cotton, sorghum, and drought-resistant grapes. The well-drained sandy loam is perfect for plants that dislike 'wet feet' and require oxygen-rich root zones. Start your gardening journey by selecting native species adapted to these alkaline, sandy plains.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Very fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cottle County have?
Cottle County's soil is classified as Very fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 28% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cottle County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cottle County's soil has a pH of 7.6, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Cottle County?
Cottle 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 Cottle County's soil?
Based on Cottle County's Very fine sandy loam texture, pH of 7.6, 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 Cottle County?
Cottle County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
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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.