Gillespie County Soil Data
Gillespie County, Texas
Avg pH
6.9
Texture
Silty clay
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Gillespie County, Texas
Prime Inceptisols in the Hill Country
Gillespie County features Inceptisols with a silty clay texture. Its average pH of 6.89 is nearly ideal, sitting just above the national median of 6.5. These soils represent some of the most balanced growing conditions in central Texas.
Fine Texture and High Clay Content
The soil contains 39.6% sand, 28.6% silt, and a significant 26.2% clay. This high clay and silt percentage allows for excellent nutrient retention and soil stability. It provides a heavy, rich foundation that is perfect for permanent crops like orchards.
Above-Average Organic Richness
Organic matter content is 1.78%, which exceeds the Texas state average of 1.66%. While the available water capacity of 0.127 in/in is slightly below the state average of 0.133 in/in, the nutrient profile remains strong. This is a highly productive landscape for dedicated growers.
Well-Drained Ground for Healthy Roots
These soils are well drained and belong to hydrologic group B, offering moderate infiltration rates. This prevents root rot in sensitive plants and provides a solid base for construction. The natural drainage makes Gillespie a premier location for agriculture.
Peaches and Grapes in Zone 8b
Gillespie County is famous for peaches and vineyards, which thrive in this well-drained, pH-balanced soil. Hardiness Zone 8b provides the perfect climate for these high-value crops to flourish. Start your own backyard orchard to tap into this rich local tradition.
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: Silty clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Gillespie County have?
Gillespie County's soil is classified as Silty clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 40% sand, 29% silt, and 26% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Gillespie County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Gillespie County's soil has a pH of 6.9, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Gillespie County?
Gillespie 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 Gillespie County's soil?
Based on Gillespie County's Silty clay texture, pH of 6.9, 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 Gillespie County?
Gillespie 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.
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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.