Kendall County Soil Data

Kendall County, Texas

Avg pH

7.7

Texture

Clay Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

2.8%

Hydrologic Group

D

Data Story

About Soil in Kendall County, Texas

Alkaline Earth of the Hill Country

Kendall County soil is distinctly alkaline with a pH of 7.68. This is significantly higher than the national median of 6.5 and even surpasses the Texas state average of 7.09.

Heavy Silt and Clay Mix

The soil contains 38.5% silt and 38.0% clay, with just 21.9% sand. This dense composition creates a heavy texture that retains nutrients effectively but can be difficult to work when it dries out.

High Organic Matter for Growth

Organic matter is a high point here at 2.78%, beating the Texas average of 1.66% and the national 2.0% benchmark. The available water capacity of 0.136 in/in ensures plants have slightly better moisture access than the typical Texas plot.

Slow Drainage and High Runoff

Classified in hydrologic group D, these soils have a very high runoff potential and slow infiltration. This makes the land better suited for hardy native range plants than for crops that require rapid drainage.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8b

The combination of high organic matter and alkaline soil supports tough Hill Country classics like rosemary and Texas mountain laurel. Start a garden with drought-hardy perennials that can handle the heavy clay and limestone influence.

Soil Composition

Clay Loam
Sand: 21.9%
Silt: 38.5%
Clay: 38.0%
Clay Loam

Soil pH

7.7pH
7.68368665967027
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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.

Runoff potential:High

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Clay Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Kendall County have?

Kendall County's soil is classified as Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 39% silt, and 38% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Kendall County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Kendall County's soil has a pH of 7.7, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.

What is the drainage class for Kendall County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Kendall County.

What crops or plants grow well in Kendall County's soil?

Based on Kendall County's Clay Loam texture, pH of 7.7, 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 Kendall County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Kendall County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.