Dallas County Soil Data

Dallas County, Texas

Avg pH

6.6

Texture

Variable

Drainage

Well drained

Organic Matter

1.5%

Hydrologic Group

A

Data Story

About Soil in Dallas County, Texas

A balanced and neutral soil foundation

Dallas County features Entisols with an average pH of 6.57, which sits nearly perfectly on the national median of 6.5 and is lower than the Texas average of 7.09. These young soils offer a neutral base that supports a wide range of plant life without the heavy alkalinity found in other parts of the state.

Even textures drive consistent workability

The soil composition is remarkably balanced with 30.0% sand, 26.7% silt, and 30.4% clay. This mix creates a variable texture that provides a middle ground between the easy drainage of sand and the nutrient-holding power of clay.

Moderate organic matter and water capacity

Organic matter stands at 1.53%, trailing both the state average of 1.66% and the national average of 2.0%. With an available water capacity of 0.131 in/in, the soil holds moisture at levels very close to the Texas benchmark of 0.133 in/in.

Excellent drainage for urban and rural use

The land is classified as well drained and falls into hydrologic group A, which indicates a high rate of water transmission. This makes the soil ideal for gardening and construction as it resists pooling and saturated roots.

A gardener's paradise in Zone 8b

Situated in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, Dallas County soils are perfect for heat-tolerant favorites like okra, peppers, and native perennials. Grab a shovel and start planting, as these neutral soils require fewer amendments than neighboring counties.

Soil Composition

Variable
Sand: 30.0%
Silt: 26.7%
Clay: 30.4%
Variable

Soil pH

6.6pH
6.57315789642757
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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.

Runoff potential:Low

Drainage Class

Well drained

Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Variable

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Dallas County have?

Dallas County's soil is classified as Variable. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 27% silt, and 30% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.

Is Dallas County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Dallas County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.

What is the drainage class for Dallas County?

Dallas 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 Dallas County's soil?

Based on Dallas County's Variable texture, pH of 6.6, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, most annual and perennial crops.

What USDA soil order is found in Dallas County?

Dallas 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.

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.