Denton County Soil Data
Denton County, Texas
Avg pH
6.8
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Denton County, Texas
The productive Alfisols of North Texas
Denton County features Alfisols with a pH of 6.84, which is very close to the national median of 6.5. These soils are generally more acidic than the Texas average of 7.09, making them highly versatile for various agricultural uses.
Fine sandy loam provides great structure
The dominant texture is fine sandy loam, composed of 38.1% sand, 25.5% silt, and 30.5% clay. This mix offers excellent workability while retaining enough clay to hold essential plant nutrients.
Strong water capacity for steady growth
The soil holds 1.53% organic matter, slightly below the state average of 1.66%. However, its available water capacity of 0.138 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.133 in/in, helping plants survive dry spells.
Reliable drainage for varied land use
Classified as well drained and belonging to hydrologic group B, these soils allow for moderate infiltration. This makes the county's land favorable for both residential development and intensive gardening.
Versatile gardening in Zone 8b
Denton's Zone 8b climate and near-neutral pH allow for success with everything from tomatoes to peaches. The fine sandy loam texture is a gift for any gardener looking to establish a productive backyard plot.
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: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Denton County have?
Denton County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 38% sand, 26% silt, and 30% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Denton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Denton County's soil has a pH of 6.8, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Denton County?
Denton 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 Denton County's soil?
Based on Denton County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 6.8, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Denton County?
Denton County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
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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.