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Lee County Soil Data

Lee County, Texas

USDA SSURGO / PHZM

Avg pH

6.3

Texture

Variable

Drainage

Well drained

Organic Matter

1.2%

Hydrologic Group

D

Data Story

About Soil in Lee County, Texas

Slightly Acidic Sands of Lee County

Lee County has a pH of 6.33, which is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. The overall soil score of 34.3 is notably better than the state average of 28.8.

Sandy Profiles Offer Easy Tilling

With 61.0% sand and only 15.6% clay, these soils are light and very easy to work. The lack of clay means the soil won't get as sticky or compacted as in other Texas counties.

Lower Organic Matter but High Potential

Organic matter is lower than the state average at 1.18%, and water capacity is 0.129 in/in. While the soil is naturally less fertile, the acidic pH makes it ideal for specific acid-loving plants.

Well Drained Land with Runoff Limits

The soil is classified as well drained, yet it is categorized in hydrologic group D. This indicates that while the top layer drains well, there may be restrictive layers deeper down that increase runoff risk.

Blueberries and More in Zone 9a

The acidic nature of this soil is perfect for blueberries and azaleas, which struggle elsewhere in Texas. Take advantage of your unique soil chemistry and zone 9a warmth this season.

Soil Composition

Variable
Sand: 61.0%
Silt: 21.6%
Clay: 15.6%
Variable

Soil pH

6.3pH
6.32667150984215
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

Well drained

Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Variable

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.

Soil Amendment Products

Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.

Browse Soil Amendments

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Lee County have?

Lee County's soil is classified as Variable. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 61% sand, 22% silt, and 16% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.

Is Lee County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Lee County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Lee County?

Lee 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 Lee County's soil?

Based on Lee County's Variable texture, pH of 6.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, most annual and perennial crops.

What USDA soil order is found in Lee County?

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

Soil & Planting Advisory: Lee County

Soil Verdict

Lee County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.

Planting Guidance

Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. 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

Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.

Regional Context

Lee County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average.

Other Counties in Texas

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

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.