Johnson County Soil Data
Johnson County, Texas
Avg pH
7.0
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Johnson County, Texas
High-Quality Neutral Alfisols
Johnson County boasts a high soil score of 36.1, well above the state average of 28.8. The average pH of 7.01 is almost perfectly neutral compared to the national median of 6.5. These Alfisols are known for being productive and versatile for agriculture.
Versatile Silty Clay Loams
The dominant texture is silty clay loam, featuring 37.9% sand, 29.1% silt, and 28.5% clay. This mix provides excellent workability and superior nutrient retention for your crops. It is a balanced soil that responds well to both manual and mechanical cultivation.
Excellent Water Holding Capacity
Available water capacity is 0.138 in/in, which exceeds the Texas state average of 0.133 in/in. Organic matter sits at 1.61%, very close to the state average of 1.66%. These levels indicate a strong natural ability to support healthy, thriving plant life.
Moderately Well Drained Land
The soil is classified as moderately well drained, though it falls into hydrologic group D. This means while it drains well under normal conditions, it can become slow to absorb water during extreme storms. Proper grading around your home and garden will help manage this runoff potential.
Diverse Potential in Zone 8b
Johnson County is in Hardiness Zone 8b, allowing for a vast range of fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals. The neutral pH and high water capacity make it an ideal spot for roses, pecans, and summer squash. Get your hands in the dirt and take advantage of some of the state's best soil.
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Johnson County have?
Johnson County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 38% sand, 29% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Johnson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Johnson County's soil has a pH of 7.0, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Johnson County?
Johnson County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Johnson County's soil?
Based on Johnson County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 7.0, and Moderately 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 Johnson County?
Johnson County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Johnson 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.