Kendall County Soil Data
Kendall County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg 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
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: Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Alkaline Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 7.7. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Kendall County
Soil Verdict
Kendall County is in USDA hardiness zone 8b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 15°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. 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.
Regional Context
Kendall County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Kendall 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.