Kimble County Soil Data
Kimble County, Texas
Avg pH
7.7
Texture
Stony loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.8%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Kimble County, Texas
Fertile Mollisols of Kimble County
Kimble County is characterized by Mollisols, the dark soils often found in productive grasslands. These soils are alkaline, with a pH of 7.67 compared to the national median of 6.5.
The Challenge of Stony Loam
The dominant texture is stony loam, composed of 30.1% sand, 35.0% silt, and 33.6% clay. This even distribution helps with nutrient storage, though the stones can make mechanical tilling difficult.
Robust Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter is robust at 2.77%, outperforming both the state average of 1.66% and the national 2.0% mark. The available water capacity of 0.134 in/in is almost exactly on par with the Texas state average.
Well-Drained but High Runoff
While the soil is officially well-drained, its hydrologic group D classification suggests a high risk of runoff during heavy rains. The stony texture helps water move through the surface, but the underlying layers may restrict deep infiltration.
Orchard Potential in Zone 8a
Situated in Zone 8a, Kimble County is perfect for pecans and fruit trees that enjoy alkaline conditions. Get your garden started with raised beds to bypass the stones and take advantage of the high organic richness.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Stony loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Kimble County have?
Kimble County's soil is classified as Stony loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 35% silt, and 34% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Kimble County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Kimble 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 Kimble County?
Kimble County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Kimble County's soil?
Based on Kimble County's Stony loam texture, pH of 7.7, and 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 Kimble County?
Kimble County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Kimble 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.