Mitchell County Soil Data
Mitchell County, Texas
Avg pH
7.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Mitchell County, Texas
Alkaline Soils of West Texas
Mitchell County soils have an average pH of 7.64, which is notably more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This high pH is common in arid regions where minerals like calcium carbonate accumulate near the surface. Taxonomic data is not currently specified for this county.
A Sandy Loam Influence
The soil composition consists of 43.9% sand, 26.2% clay, and 28.4% silt. This blend creates a texture that is relatively easy to till while still providing enough clay to hold some nutrients. It represents a transition between the deep sands further west and the heavier clays to the east.
Strong Water Retention Despite Low Organic Matter
At 1.51%, the organic matter is slightly below the Texas average of 1.66%. However, the available water capacity of 0.141 in/in is quite high, beating the state average of 0.133. This suggests the soil is surprisingly good at holding onto precious rainfall for later plant use.
High Runoff Risk in Group D
Mitchell County is characterized by Hydrologic Group D, indicating soils with very low infiltration rates. This means that during intense storms, water is more likely to run off the surface than soak into the ground. Careful management of surface water is vital for preventing erosion and flash flooding.
Drought-Tolerant Gardening in Zone 8a
Hardiness Zone 8a favors tough, sun-loving plants like cotton, sorghum, and native sunflowers. The soil's high water capacity helps plants survive the dry spells common in this part of Texas. Home gardeners should focus on drought-resistant varieties and use plenty of mulch to protect the soil surface.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Mitchell County have?
Mitchell County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 44% sand, 28% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Mitchell County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Mitchell 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 Mitchell County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Mitchell County.
What crops or plants grow well in Mitchell County's soil?
Based on Mitchell County's Loam texture, pH of 7.6, 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 Mitchell County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Mitchell County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Mitchell 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.