Jim Wells County Soil Data
Jim Wells County, Texas
Avg pH
7.1
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Jim Wells County, Texas
Slightly Alkaline Coastal Bend Soils
Jim Wells County has an average pH of 7.15, which is slightly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This level is very close to the Texas state average of 7.09. The overall soil score of 31.2 indicates better-than-average quality for the state.
Sandy Loams with Clay Character
The soil contains 57.0% sand, 18.1% silt, and 20.5% clay. This composition offers a good balance of easy tilling from the sand and nutrient holding power from the clay. However, the clay content is high enough to require monitoring for drainage issues.
Solid Moisture and Nutrient Retention
Organic matter levels are 1.64%, nearly matching the Texas state average of 1.66%. With an available water capacity of 0.128 in/in, the soil holds almost as much moisture as the state average of 0.133 in/in. This makes the county a reliable place for consistent plant growth.
Navigating Slow Infiltration Rates
The county is classified under hydrologic group D, which indicates very slow water infiltration when saturated. This can lead to ponding during the heavy rain events typical of the Texas coast. You should implement raised beds to help sensitive plant roots stay dry.
Bountiful Harvests in Zone 9b
Located in Hardiness Zone 9b, Jim Wells County is perfect for a variety of citrus and warm-weather vegetables. Your garden can stay productive almost all year round if you manage the summer heat. Dive into gardening by trying heat-hardy tomatoes or sweet potatoes.
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 Jim Wells County have?
Jim Wells County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 18% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jim Wells County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jim Wells County's soil has a pH of 7.1, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Jim Wells County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Jim Wells County.
What crops or plants grow well in Jim Wells County's soil?
Based on Jim Wells County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 7.1, 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 Jim Wells County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Jim Wells County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jim Wells 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.