Duval County Soil Data
Duval County, Texas
Avg pH
7.4
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Duval County, Texas
Fine Sandy Loams of South Texas
Duval County is dominated by Inceptisols with a fine sandy loam texture. The average pH of 7.36 is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5.
Sandy Profiles Ensure Rapid Drainage
The soil contains 60.0% sand, 19.8% silt, and 20.3% clay. This high sand content ensures fast drainage, though it requires regular nutrient management to maintain productivity.
Solid Organic Matter for Arid Land
Organic matter levels of 1.60% nearly meet the Texas state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.125 in/in is slightly lower than the state benchmark of 0.133.
Effective Moisture Management for Gardens
Well drained soils and hydrologic group B indicate good water movement through the profile. These characteristics help minimize runoff risks during intense South Texas rain events.
Heat-Loving Plants Thrive in Zone 9b
Located in hardiness zone 9b, this county supports heat-loving citrus, peppers, and tropicals. The sandy loam is a fantastic foundation for a productive year-round garden.
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 Duval County have?
Duval County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 60% sand, 20% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Duval County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Duval County's soil has a pH of 7.4, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Duval County?
Duval 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 Duval County's soil?
Based on Duval County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 7.4, 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 Duval County?
Duval County's dominant soil order is Inceptisols. Inceptisols are young soils with weak horizon development. They occur in a wide range of climates and parent materials.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Duval 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.