Matagorda County Soil Data
Matagorda County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.8
Texture
Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Matagorda County, Texas
Balanced Soils on the Gulf Coast
Matagorda County boasts a near-neutral average pH of 6.80, closely aligning with the national median of 6.5. This balanced pH makes the soil extremely versatile for a wide range of agricultural activities. It is significantly more balanced than the more alkaline soils found further inland.
Heavier Textures for Nutrient Storage
The soil is a heavy mix of 31.6% clay and 31.4% silt, with 37.0% sand rounding out the profile. This high clay and silt content provides excellent nutrient retention and creates a fertile base for intensive farming. However, these heavier soils can become difficult to work when they are overly wet.
Rich Organic Matter and High Potential
The organic matter content is an impressive 2.71%, far exceeding the Texas state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is 0.131 in/in, which is nearly identical to the state average. This combination makes Matagorda one of the more naturally fertile counties in the state.
Managing Water in Group D Soils
Classified as hydrologic group D, these soils have a very slow infiltration rate and high runoff potential. This is common in low-lying coastal areas where heavy clays and a high water table dominate the landscape. Farmers often use drainage ditches and raised rows to prevent waterlogging.
Bountiful Gardens in Zone 9b
With a tropical-leaning hardiness zone of 9b, Matagorda County is ideal for citrus, rice, and year-round vegetable gardening. The high organic matter supports vigorous growth for almost anything you plant. Try your hand at growing lemons or lush tropical ornamentals in this coastal haven.
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: Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Matagorda County have?
Matagorda County's soil is classified as Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 31% silt, and 32% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Matagorda County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Matagorda County's soil has a pH of 6.8, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Matagorda County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Matagorda County.
What crops or plants grow well in Matagorda County's soil?
Based on Matagorda County's Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.8, 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 Matagorda County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Matagorda County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Matagorda County
Soil Verdict
Matagorda County is in USDA hardiness zone 9b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 25°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
Matagorda County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Matagorda 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.