Deaf Smith County Soil Data
Deaf Smith County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Deaf Smith County, Texas
Strongly alkaline Panhandle soils
Deaf Smith County features an average pH of 7.83, making it significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 7.09. This chemical profile is typical for the high plains, where calcium carbonate often influences the soil chemistry.
Balanced textures for regional agriculture
The soil contains 42.6% sand, 31.5% silt, and 25.9% clay. This mix provides enough clay to retain nutrients while the sand content ensures the soil doesn't become overly compacted.
Rich organic matter and water storage
This county outperforms the state with 1.86% organic matter, compared to the Texas average of 1.66%. It also boasts a high available water capacity of 0.149 in/in, which is superior to the state average of 0.133 in/in.
High runoff potential in group D
The soil belongs to hydrologic group D, indicating it has low infiltration rates and a high potential for runoff. Farmers and builders must account for this slow drainage when planning irrigation or site drainage systems.
Cooler winters and productive Zone 7a
The Zone 7a climate supports wheat and sorghum, which benefit from the high water-holding capacity of the soil. Gardeners should choose plants that tolerate high pH levels, such as lavender or certain varieties of beans and squash.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Alkaline Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 7.8. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Deaf Smith County have?
Deaf Smith County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 43% sand, 31% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Deaf Smith County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Deaf Smith 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 Deaf Smith County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Deaf Smith County.
What crops or plants grow well in Deaf Smith County's soil?
Based on Deaf Smith County's Loam texture, pH of 7.8, 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 Deaf Smith County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Deaf Smith County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Deaf Smith County
Soil Verdict
Deaf Smith County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°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. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Deaf Smith County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Deaf Smith 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.