Mason County Soil Data
Mason County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Mason County, Texas
Acidic Pockets in the Hill Country
Mason County features an average pH of 6.17, making it more acidic than both the national median (6.5) and the Texas average (7.09). This acidity is somewhat unique for the region and reflects the granite-rich geology of the Llano Uplift. While many Texas soils are alkaline, these soils are naturally suited for acid-loving plants.
A Gritty, Sandy Matrix
The composition is dominated by 48.7% sand, followed by 21.5% silt and 18.2% clay. This high sand fraction allows for rapid drainage but reduces the soil's ability to store nutrients. The balance suggests a soil that is easy to till but requires frequent monitoring of soil health.
Lower Water Capacity and Organic Matter
The county's organic matter stands at 1.49%, slightly below the state average of 1.66%. Available water capacity is also low at 0.100 in/in, significantly trailing the state average of 0.133. This means the soil dries out quickly and may require more intensive irrigation strategies.
Fast Runoff and Group D Soils
Mason County is dominated by hydrologic group D, which indicates very slow infiltration and high runoff potential when the ground is saturated. This often occurs when shallow soils sit over impermeable granite or limestone layers. Gardeners should focus on raised beds to manage moisture effectively.
Perfect for Pecans in Zone 8b
The 8b hardiness zone and acidic soil make Mason County famous for its high-quality pecans and diverse wildflowers. Native grasses and fruit trees thrive here when given enough supplemental water during summer dry spells. Plant some bluebells or fruit trees today to enjoy the unique local chemistry.
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
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Mason County have?
Mason County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 49% sand, 21% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Mason County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Mason County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Mason County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Mason County.
What crops or plants grow well in Mason County's soil?
Based on Mason County's Loam texture, pH of 6.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Mason County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Mason County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Mason County
Soil Verdict
Mason County is in USDA hardiness zone 8b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 15°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. 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.
Regional Context
Mason County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Mason 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.