Limestone County Soil Data
Limestone County, Texas
Avg pH
6.6
Texture
Clay
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Limestone County, Texas
Ideal pH for local farming
Dominant Vertisols characterize this county, featuring a near-perfect average pH of 6.62. This sits almost exactly at the national median of 6.5, creating a neutral environment that supports a wide range of biological activity.
The strength of clay loam
With a high clay content of 23.7% and 48.2% sand, these soils are structurally heavy but hold nutrients well. The 23.5% silt content adds enough fine particles to create a productive, if sometimes difficult to till, growing medium.
Modest organic matter levels
Limestone County contains 1.44% organic matter, which is slightly below the Texas average of 1.66%. However, its available water capacity of 0.136 in/in remains just above the state benchmark, providing adequate moisture for local crops.
Moderately well-drained Vertisols
The soil is moderately well-drained, though its hydrologic group D classification warning of high runoff when saturated. These Vertisols can shrink and swell significantly, which is a critical consideration for building foundations and roadwork.
Plan your zone 8b harvest
Hardiness zone 8b is perfect for growing hearty staples like cotton, corn, and summer squash. Your neutral soil pH is a major asset, so get those seeds in the ground and watch your garden flourish!
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Limestone County have?
Limestone County's soil is classified as Clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 24% silt, and 24% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Limestone County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Limestone County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Limestone County?
Limestone County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Limestone County's soil?
Based on Limestone County's Clay texture, pH of 6.6, and Moderately well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, wetland plants and crops tolerant of slow drainage, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Limestone County?
Limestone County's dominant soil order is Vertisols. Vertisols are clay-rich soils that shrink and crack when dry and swell when wet. They are challenging to manage but often fertile.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Limestone 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.