Jones County Soil Data
Jones County, Texas
Avg pH
7.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Jones County, Texas
Alkaline Earths of the Rolling Plains
Jones County soil has an average pH of 7.18, making it slightly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. The overall soil score is 26.0, which is just below the Texas state average of 28.8. This soil reflects the rugged, lime-influenced character of the region.
A Balanced Mix of Sand and Clay
The composition is 47.6% sand, 22.5% silt, and 23.0% clay. This creates a texture that drains relatively well while still providing enough clay to hold onto necessary nutrients. You will find this soil relatively easy to work with for most gardening projects.
Managing Dry Soil Conditions
Organic matter is 1.34%, which falls below the Texas state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is 0.126 in/in, trailing the state average of 0.133 in/in. To maximize growth, you should focus on adding compost and using mulch to retain every drop of rain.
Slow Infiltration and High Runoff
The soil is part of hydrologic group D, which indicates very slow infiltration rates when the ground is fully wet. This can cause water to pool or run off quickly during the intense rainstorms common in West Texas. Planning for proper drainage is essential when building or landscaping.
Tough Growing in Zone 8a
Jones County is in Hardiness Zone 8a, where plants must endure both winter freezes and summer droughts. Native grasses and hardy vegetables like kale and beans do well in this climate. Your garden will thrive if you select varieties known for their resilience and heat tolerance.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Jones County have?
Jones County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 22% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jones County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jones County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Jones County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Jones County.
What crops or plants grow well in Jones County's soil?
Based on Jones County's Loam texture, pH of 7.2, 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 Jones County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Jones County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jones 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.