Montague County Soil Data
Montague County, Texas
Avg pH
7.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Montague County, Texas
Near-Neutral Soils of the Red River Valley
Montague County features an average pH of 7.14, which is just slightly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This near-neutral level is ideal for a wide variety of plants, as most nutrients are readily available in this range. The taxonomic order for these soils is currently unclassified in the regional data.
Sandy Texture with Good Workability
The soil is dominated by 51.6% sand, with 26.6% silt and 21.8% clay making up the rest. This high sand content ensures the ground is easy to work and resists compaction. It allows for quick root penetration, though it may require more frequent watering than heavier soils.
Solid Fertility and Water Storage
Organic matter content is 1.70%, which is just above the Texas average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.137 in/in also beats the state benchmark of 0.133. These metrics indicate a healthy soil environment capable of supporting productive farms and ranches.
High Runoff Potential Challenges
Despite the sandy texture, the county falls into Hydrologic Group D, suggesting low infiltration when the soil is fully saturated. This can lead to surprisingly high runoff during heavy rainfall events common to North Texas. Effective ground cover is essential to prevent the sandy surface from eroding away.
Abundant Growth in Zone 8a
Zone 8a allows Montague County gardeners to grow everything from wine grapes to summer squash. The sandy, neutral soil is particularly well-suited for melons and root vegetables that need room to expand. It is an excellent environment to start a hobby vineyard or a large vegetable patch.
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 Montague County have?
Montague County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 27% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Montague County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Montague County's soil has a pH of 7.1, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Montague County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Montague County.
What crops or plants grow well in Montague County's soil?
Based on Montague County's Loam texture, pH of 7.1, 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 Montague County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Montague County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Montague 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.