Hutchinson County Soil Data
Hutchinson 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 Hutchinson County, Texas
Alkaline plains of the Panhandle
Hutchinson County features an average pH of 7.53, which is more alkaline than both the national median and the state average. This chemistry reflects the calcium-rich parent materials common in the High Plains. While the taxonomic order is not specified, the alkalinity influences which native grasses thrive here.
A sandy loam foundation
The soil contains 46.4% sand and 20.4% clay, offering a relatively coarse texture that allows for good aeration. With 29.9% silt, the soil has enough fine material to assist with some nutrient stability. This composition is easy to plow but can be susceptible to wind erosion if left uncovered.
Moisture retention in dry lands
Despite a lower organic matter content of 1.35%, the soil boasts a high available water capacity of 0.146 in/in. This exceeds the state average of 0.133, providing a critical buffer for plants during dry Panhandle summers. The overall soil score of 25.7 reflects the challenges of lower organic matter in this climate.
Slow infiltration and high runoff
The county is primarily in hydrologic group D, signaling very slow infiltration rates despite the significant sand content. This often happens because of dense subsurface layers that impede the downward movement of water. Landowners should manage for runoff to prevent soil loss during heavy storms.
Cooler winters in Zone 7a
Hutchinson County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, allowing for plants that need a bit more winter chill like apples and certain berries. The high water capacity supports resilient native grasses like blue grama and buffalograss. Start a prairie-inspired landscape that honors the strength of the Texas Panhandle.
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 Hutchinson County have?
Hutchinson County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 30% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Hutchinson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Hutchinson 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 Hutchinson County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Hutchinson County.
What crops or plants grow well in Hutchinson County's soil?
Based on Hutchinson 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 Hutchinson County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Hutchinson County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Hutchinson County
Soil Verdict
Hutchinson 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
Hutchinson County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Hutchinson 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.