Foard County Soil Data

Foard County, Texas

Avg pH

7.5

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

1.3%

Hydrologic Group

D

Data Story

About Soil in Foard County, Texas

Foard County's Characteristic Alkalinity

Foard County features an alkaline soil profile with an average pH of 7.50. This is significantly higher than the national median of 6.5 and also tops the Texas average of 7.09. While taxonomic data is sparse, the chemical profile is typical for North Texas plains.

A Gritty and Substantial Mix

The soil is comprised of 42.2% sand, 31.5% silt, and 24.6% clay. This blend provides enough clay for nutrient storage but keeps the soil gritty enough to avoid total compaction. It represents a middle-ground texture that balances drainage and retention.

Above Average Water Capacity

Available water capacity is a bright spot at 0.149 in/in, surpassing the state average of 0.133. Organic matter is lower than the state benchmark at 1.29%, suggesting a need for supplemental nitrogen. This soil is capable of supporting life even when rain is scarce.

Managing Group D Runoff Challenges

Classified in hydrologic group D, the soil has a high potential for runoff during storm events. Without cover crops or mulch, the soil surface can erode or crust over quite easily. Strategic water management is the key to preventing topsoil loss in this county.

Planting in Hardiness Zone 8a

Zone 8a supports a long growing season for heat-loving plants like cotton, sorghum, and peppers. With a soil score of 26.6, the land is just slightly under the Texas average but remains highly viable with proper care. Start a garden using compost to help lower the pH and increase organic activity.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 42.2%
Silt: 31.5%
Clay: 24.6%
Loam

Soil pH

7.5pH
7.5018947060424
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 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.

Runoff potential:High

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Loam

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 Foard County have?

Foard County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 42% sand, 31% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Foard County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Foard County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.

What is the drainage class for Foard County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Foard County.

What crops or plants grow well in Foard County's soil?

Based on Foard County's Loam texture, pH of 7.5, 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 Foard County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Foard County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.