Madison County Soil Data
Madison County, Texas
Avg pH
6.1
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Madison County, Texas
Fine sandy loams and Alfisols
Madison County is dominated by Alfisols with a fine sandy loam texture. The average pH of 6.12 is slightly acidic, falling just below the national median of 6.5 but remaining very productive.
Sand-heavy for easy drainage
This soil is 58.0% sand, which is quite high and ensures the ground stays loose and workable. The 18.7% clay content provides a decent base for nutrient storage without making the soil too compact.
Lower organic matter reserves
The organic matter level of 1.24% is lower than the Texas average of 1.66%, so focus on soil building. Available water capacity is also slightly low at 0.129 in/in, meaning plants will need consistent watering.
Moderately well-drained ground
These soils are moderately well-drained but belong to hydrologic group D, which indicates a risk for runoff on slopes. This combination means you should watch for quick drying on the surface while subsoils may stay damp.
Blueberries love zone 9a
The slightly acidic soil in hardiness zone 9a is perfect for blueberries and blackberries. Start a garden today and enjoy the benefits of a soil that is exceptionally easy to dig and plant!
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: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Madison County have?
Madison County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 58% sand, 23% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Madison County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Madison County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Madison County?
Madison 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 Madison County's soil?
Based on Madison County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 6.1, and Moderately well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Madison County?
Madison County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Madison 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.