Hemphill County Soil Data
Hemphill County, Texas
Avg pH
7.5
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Hemphill County, Texas
Alkaline Panhandle Soils
Hemphill County soils are distinctly alkaline with an average pH of 7.47. This is significantly higher than the national median of 6.5 and even exceeds the Texas state average of 7.09.
High Sand and Workability
The soil is dominated by a 54.3% sand content, paired with 25.9% silt and 18.1% clay. This sandy mix provides high workability but requires careful management to retain moisture and nutrients over time.
Low Organic Matter Potential
Organic matter sits at 1.28%, trailing behind the state average of 1.66% and the national 2.0% benchmark. However, the available water capacity of 0.135 in/in slightly outperforms the state average of 0.133.
Surface Runoff Challenges
Classified in hydrologic group D, these soils exhibit high runoff potential despite the sandy texture. This combination means water moves quickly over the surface rather than soaking in during heavy Panhandle rain events.
Sturdy Zone 7a Plants
Gardening in zone 7a allows for a variety of cool-season vegetables and hearty grains. Wheat and native grasses perform well here, especially with supplemental irrigation to offset the alkaline pH.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Hemphill County have?
Hemphill County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 54% sand, 26% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hemphill County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hemphill County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Hemphill County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hemphill County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hemphill County's soil?
Based on Hemphill County's Sandy 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 Hemphill County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Hemphill County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hemphill 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.