Hardeman County Soil Data
Hardeman County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.3
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.1%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Hardeman County, Texas
Alkaline Inceptisols Near the Red River
Hardeman County's Inceptisols are slightly alkaline with a pH of 7.28, exceeding the national median of 6.5. These soils represent a younger geologic stage and typically feature a clay loam texture.
Gritty Textures Aid Easy Tilling
The soil contains a high sand content of 47.4% paired with 22.3% clay. This combination creates a workable surface that resists the heavy compaction often found in wetter regions.
Standard Water Capacity, Low Organic Matter
Available water capacity sits at 0.134 in/in, which aligns with the state average of 0.133. However, the organic matter content is low at 1.14%, suggesting a need for compost amendments to boost productivity.
Moderately Moving Well-Drained Soils
The county features well-drained soils in hydrologic group B. This allows for a moderate rate of water transmission, making the land suitable for both farming and stable construction.
Long Growing Seasons in Zone 7b
The 7b hardiness zone allows for long summers perfect for growing melons and cotton. Despite a 24.4 soil score, targeted fertilization can unlock the potential of these well-draining clay loams.
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: Clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Hardeman County have?
Hardeman County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 47% sand, 28% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hardeman County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hardeman County's soil has a pH of 7.3, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Hardeman County?
Hardeman 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 Hardeman County's soil?
Based on Hardeman County's Clay loam texture, pH of 7.3, 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 Hardeman County?
Hardeman 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Hardeman County
Soil Verdict
Hardeman 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
Hardeman County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hardeman 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.