McLennan County Soil Data
McLennan County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.2
Texture
Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in McLennan County, Texas
Neutral Soils in the Blackland Prairie
McLennan County's average soil pH is 7.18, sitting just slightly above the national 6.5 median and the state 7.09 average. This near-neutrality is a primary reason the region became an agricultural powerhouse. Most garden plants and field crops find this pH range very hospitable.
Balanced Textures for Every Need
The soil is remarkably balanced with 30.5% sand, 30.9% silt, and 31.1% clay. This 'loamy' characteristic offers a rare combination of easy workability, good drainage, and high nutrient retention. It represents some of the most versatile soil architecture in the state.
Strong Water Capacity and Fertility
The organic matter content is 1.85%, which is comfortably above the Texas average of 1.66%. Available water capacity is also high at 0.136 in/in, beating the state average of 0.133. This means the soil is well-equipped to sustain crops through dry spells.
Managing the Risks of Group D
The county is dominated by hydrologic group D, which indicates slow water infiltration and a tendency for runoff. In the Waco area, this often manifests as 'shrink-swell' clay behavior that can impact building foundations. Gardeners should ensure good surface drainage to keep plant roots from suffocating.
Central Texas Gardening in Zone 8b
With a hardiness zone of 8b, McLennan County is a prime spot for corn, wheat, and diverse vegetable gardens. The balanced soil and favorable pH provide a forgiving environment for beginners and experts alike. Start your spring garden in March to take full advantage of the fertile prairie.
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 McLennan County have?
McLennan County's soil is classified as Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 31% silt, and 31% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is McLennan County's soil acidic or alkaline?
McLennan County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for McLennan County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for McLennan County.
What crops or plants grow well in McLennan County's soil?
Based on McLennan County's Clay Loam texture, pH of 7.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in McLennan County?
The dominant USDA soil order for McLennan County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: McLennan County
Soil Verdict
McLennan 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
McLennan County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for McLennan 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.