Lipscomb County Soil Data
Lipscomb County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.6
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Lipscomb County, Texas
Rich Mollisols of the Panhandle
Lipscomb County is dominated by Mollisols, the deep, fertile soils often associated with historic grasslands. The average pH of 7.57 is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 but typical for the high plains.
Balanced clay loam texture
The soil contains 46.2% sand and 21.3% clay, providing a balanced texture known as clay loam. This mix ensures excellent nutrient retention while the 32.5% silt content keeps the soil relatively easy to manage.
Excellent moisture storage
This county boasts an available water capacity of 0.150 in/in, significantly higher than the Texas average of 0.133. Though organic matter is slightly low at 1.53%, the high water retention makes it prime territory for dryland farming.
Efficient and well-drained
These soils are classified as well-drained and fall into hydrologic group B, indicating a moderate infiltration rate. This makes the land very responsive to rainfall and less prone to the standing water issues found in eastern counties.
Hardy crops for zone 7a
In hardiness zone 7a, native grasses and winter wheat thrive alongside home garden favorites like kale and root vegetables. Your well-drained soil is a huge advantage, so start planning your spring beds now!
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 7.6. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lipscomb County have?
Lipscomb County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 33% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lipscomb County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lipscomb County's soil has a pH of 7.6, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Lipscomb County?
Lipscomb 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 Lipscomb County's soil?
Based on Lipscomb County's Clay loam texture, pH of 7.6, 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 Lipscomb County?
Lipscomb 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lipscomb County
Soil Verdict
Lipscomb County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°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. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Lipscomb County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lipscomb 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.