Gray County Soil Data
Gray County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Gray County, Texas
Alkaline profiles define the High Plains
Gray County soil averages a pH of 7.53, which is significantly higher than the 6.5 national median. While specific taxonomic data is limited, the high alkalinity influences which nutrients plants can absorb.
Gritty textures dominate the earth
Sand makes up 51.5% of the soil, paired with 24.5% silt and 19.6% clay. This gritty composition suggests a sandy loam that is easy to work but requires careful nutrient management.
High water capacity despite low organic matter
Organic matter measures 1.42%, trailing the 1.66% state average. However, the available water capacity of 0.135 in/in slightly exceeds the state average, providing a buffer during dry spells.
High runoff potential in group D
The soil falls into hydrologic group D, which indicates a higher potential for runoff and slower water infiltration. Gardeners should watch for surface pooling after heavy Panhandle storms.
Cooler climate gardening in zone 7a
Zone 7a supports hardy grains and cool-season vegetables like kale and carrots. Supplement the low organic matter with compost to give your home garden a boost.
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
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Alkaline Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 7.5. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Gray County have?
Gray County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 51% sand, 25% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Gray County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Gray 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 Gray County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Gray County.
What crops or plants grow well in Gray County's soil?
Based on Gray 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 Gray County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Gray County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Gray County
Soil Verdict
Gray County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Gray County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Gray 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.