Glasscock County Soil Data
Glasscock County, Texas
Avg pH
8.0
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Glasscock County, Texas
Aridisols of the Dry Plains
Glasscock County features Aridisols with a fine sandy loam texture. Its average pH of 7.98 is very alkaline, significantly higher than the national median of 6.5. These soils are characteristic of arid regions where minerals accumulate over time.
Strong Mineral Foundation
The soil is composed of 43.8% sand, 29.9% silt, and 26.2% clay. This balanced texture offers a surprisingly high clay content for a dry region, which helps with structural stability. It provides a solid medium for both industrial use and specialized agriculture.
Exceptional Water Storage Capacity
The available water capacity is a high 0.142 in/in, comfortably beating the state average of 0.133 in/in. Organic matter is also healthy at 1.86%, well above the Texas average of 1.66%. Despite the dry climate, the soil itself is built to hold onto what it receives.
Well Drained with Runoff Potential
The soil is well drained but belongs to hydrologic group D, indicating high runoff potential during heavy rains. This means that while water moves through the profile, the surface can quickly become overwhelmed. Builders should use professional grading to manage sudden West Texas downpours.
Tough Native Species in Zone 8a
In Hardiness Zone 8a, focus on native trees and shrubs that can handle high alkalinity. The soil's great water capacity supports plants once they are established, even in dry spells. Your landscape can be both beautiful and resilient with the right local selections.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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.
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 Glasscock County have?
Glasscock County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 30% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Glasscock County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Glasscock County's soil has a pH of 8.0, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Glasscock County?
Glasscock 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 Glasscock County's soil?
Based on Glasscock County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 8.0, 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 Glasscock County?
Glasscock County's dominant soil order is Aridisols. Aridisols are soils of dry environments with low organic matter. They often have salt or calcium carbonate accumulations at depth.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Glasscock 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.