Guadalupe County Soil Data
Guadalupe County, Texas
Avg pH
7.4
Texture
Silty clay
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Guadalupe County, Texas
Inceptisols with an alkaline punch
Guadalupe County features Inceptisols with an average pH of 7.44. This is much higher than the 6.5 national median, reflecting the lime-rich parent materials common in this region.
Heavy silty clay holds the ground
The soil is composed of 32.1% clay and 33.0% silt, forming a heavy silty clay texture. This mix holds nutrients effectively but can become very sticky and difficult to work when wet.
Rich organic matter supports growth
At 1.83%, the organic matter content exceeds both the 1.66% state average and the 2.0% national average. An available water capacity of 0.137 in/in ensures crops have access to moisture.
Efficient drainage in hydrologic group B
Despite the high clay content, the soil is classified as well drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. This rare combination is highly desirable for sustainable farming and gardening.
Nutrient-dense gardening in zone 9a
Heavy feeders like tomatoes and squash thrive in this nutrient-rich, high-clay soil. Take advantage of the zone 9a climate by planting your first seeds in early spring.
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 Guadalupe County have?
Guadalupe County's soil is classified as Silty clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 35% sand, 33% silt, and 32% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Guadalupe County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Guadalupe County's soil has a pH of 7.4, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Guadalupe County?
Guadalupe 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 Guadalupe County's soil?
Based on Guadalupe County's Silty clay texture, pH of 7.4, 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 Guadalupe County?
Guadalupe 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Guadalupe 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.