Hale County Soil Data
Hale County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.7
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Hale County, Texas
Highly alkaline soils of the Panhandle
Hale County has a high average pH of 7.72, well above the 6.5 national median and 7.09 state average. Taxonomic data is currently limited for this area, but the alkalinity is a defining trait.
Sand and silt provide structure
The soil contains 54.7% sand and 25.0% silt, creating a gritty texture. This coarse composition allows for easy root penetration despite the lack of a specific texture classification.
High water capacity beats state average
Organic matter measures 1.68%, slightly better than the 1.66% state average. The available water capacity of 0.142 in/in is quite high, which is critical for agricultural success in this dry climate.
Managing runoff in hydrologic group D
The soil belongs to hydrologic group D, indicating high runoff and low infiltration rates. Successful managers use conservation tillage to help water soak into the ground instead of running off.
Resilient crops for zone 7b
Zone 7b is perfect for winter wheat, sunflowers, and drought-resistant native shrubs. Focus on salt-tolerant plants to account for the high pH levels in your backyard.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Alkaline Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 7.7. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Hale County have?
Hale County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 55% sand, 25% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hale County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hale County's soil has a pH of 7.7, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Hale County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hale County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hale County's soil?
Based on Hale County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 7.7, 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 Hale County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Hale County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Hale County
Soil Verdict
Hale County is in USDA hardiness zone 7b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 5°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. 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.
Regional Context
Hale County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hale 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.