Crockett County Soil Data
Crockett County, Texas
Avg pH
7.5
Texture
Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Crockett County, Texas
Alkaline Landscapes of the Edwards Plateau
Crockett County soils have an average pH of 7.52, significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the Texas average of 7.09. This chemistry is driven by the limestone-rich geology of the western Edwards Plateau. High pH levels here often require gardeners to select plants specifically adapted to calcareous conditions.
A Gritty Mix of Silt and Sand
The soil composition features 30.4% sand, 35.7% silt, and 27.2% clay, creating a relatively balanced but silty profile. Silt-heavy soils provide a smooth texture and good nutrient-holding capacity but can be prone to crusting after rains. This mix generally offers better workability than the heavy clays found further east.
High Organic Content in a Dry Basin
Crockett County impresses with an organic matter content of 2.55%, far exceeding the Texas average of 1.66%. However, the available water capacity is low at 0.109 in/in, falling below the state benchmark of 0.133 in/in. The soil is rich in biological life but struggles to retain moisture for long periods.
Managing Water in Unclassified Soils
While dominant drainage and hydrologic groups are not formally listed, the silty composition suggests moderate water movement. The low available water capacity indicates that water may pass through the root zone quickly or evaporate rapidly. Careful irrigation management is the key to success in this part of West Texas.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8a
Hardiness zone 8a provides the warmth needed for Mediterranean herbs like rosemary and lavender, which love the county's alkaline soils. Native plants like Texas sage and desert willow also thrive in these high-organic, low-moisture conditions. Start your garden today by focusing on species that celebrate the unique chemistry of the plateau.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
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 Crockett County have?
Crockett County's soil is classified as Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 36% silt, and 27% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Crockett County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Crockett County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Crockett County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Crockett County.
What crops or plants grow well in Crockett County's soil?
Based on Crockett 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 Crockett County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Crockett County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Crockett 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.