Fayette County Soil Data
Fayette County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.7
Texture
Fine sand
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Fayette County, Texas
Sandy Alfisols Define the Landscape
Fayette County's soils are primarily Alfisols characterized by a fine sand texture. The average pH of 6.67 is incredibly close to the national median of 6.5, making it more acidic than the typical Texas soil average of 7.09.
Dominant Sand Leads to Easy Working
With a high sand content of 52.5% and only 20.9% clay, these soils are exceptionally easy to work and till. This mix allows for rapid root penetration and air circulation but may require more frequent fertilization. The 22.3% silt provides just enough body to prevent the soil from being purely skeletal.
Low Organic Matter and Quick Drainage
Organic matter is modest at 1.44%, falling below the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is also lower than average at 0.125 in/in, meaning the soil dries out faster than in neighboring counties. Frequent small waterings are often more effective here than occasional deep soaking.
Exceptional Infiltration in Group A
The county is well drained and falls into hydrologic group A, indicating a very low runoff potential. Water moves quickly through the sandy profile, which is ideal for preventing root rot but can lead to nutrient leaching. This makes the land excellent for development and septic systems.
Gardening in Hardiness Zone 9a
The sandy, near-neutral soils are perfect for blackberries, dewberries, and various native wildflowers. Zone 9a offers a nearly year-round growing season for those who manage the lower water retention. With a soil score of 36.8, your land has great potential for a thriving home orchard.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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.
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 sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Sandy Soil Detected
Sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out. These products boost water retention and organic matter.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Fayette County have?
Fayette County's soil is classified as Fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 22% silt, and 21% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Fayette County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Fayette County's soil has a pH of 6.7, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Fayette County?
Fayette 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 Fayette County's soil?
Based on Fayette County's Fine sand texture, pH of 6.7, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Fayette County?
Fayette 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Fayette County
Soil Verdict
Fayette County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. 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
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Fayette County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Fayette 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.