Gonzales County Soil Data

Gonzales County, Texas

Avg pH

6.8

Texture

Loamy fine sand

Drainage

Well drained

Organic Matter

1.5%

Hydrologic Group

C

Data Story

About Soil in Gonzales County, Texas

Loamy Alfisols highlight the local landscape

Gonzales County features Alfisols with a dominant texture of loamy fine sand. The average pH of 6.84 is slightly more alkaline than the 6.5 national median but more acidic than the 7.09 state average.

A balanced mix of sand and clay

The soil contains 52.2% sand, 23.1% silt, and 22.8% clay. This mixture provides a solid foundation for plant roots while maintaining enough clay to hold essential minerals.

Steady water capacity drives productivity

The 1.48% organic matter content sits below the 1.66% state average, yet the soil score of 35.0 outpaces many neighbors. An available water capacity of 0.132 in/in matches the state benchmark for moisture retention.

Reliable drainage for agricultural success

Fields are classified as well drained and belong to hydrologic group C. This setup promotes healthy root aeration and manages runoff effectively during typical Texas rain events.

Thriving in hardiness zone 9a

The warm climate and loamy sand favor pecans, peaches, and heat-tolerant vegetables. Start your garden today to take advantage of this productive soil profile.

Soil Composition

Loamy fine sand
Sand: 52.2%
Silt: 23.1%
Clay: 22.8%
Loamy fine sand

Soil pH

6.8pH
6.84307866211914
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 C — Moderate-High Runoff

Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.

Runoff potential:Moderate-High

Drainage Class

Well drained

Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Loamy fine sand

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 Gonzales County have?

Gonzales County's soil is classified as Loamy fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 23% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Gonzales County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Gonzales County's soil has a pH of 6.8, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.

What is the drainage class for Gonzales County?

Gonzales 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 Gonzales County's soil?

Based on Gonzales County's Loamy fine sand texture, pH of 6.8, 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 Gonzales County?

Gonzales 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.

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.