Montgomery County Soil Data
Montgomery County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Fine sand
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Montgomery County, Texas
Highly Acidic Alfisols of the Piney Woods
Montgomery County is defined by Alfisols with a very acidic average pH of 5.06. This is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5 and the Texas average of 7.09. These acidic conditions are typical for forested regions and require specific plant choices or lime amendments for traditional gardening.
Fine Sand and High Permeability
The soil is composed of 53.8% sand, 25.0% silt, and only 14.7% clay, resulting in a fine sand texture. This mix provides excellent aeration for roots but struggles to hold onto nutrients. It is very easy to dig, making it popular for landscaping and rapid development.
Low Capacity for Moisture and Matter
Organic matter sits at 1.43%, which is below the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.123 in/in is also lower than the Texas benchmark, meaning these soils dry out quickly. Frequent irrigation and organic mulching are necessary to keep plants healthy during hot Houston-area summers.
Excellent Drainage and Low Runoff
Classified as moderately well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group A, these soils have high infiltration rates. This means water moves through the profile quickly, reducing the risk of surface flooding but increasing the need for water management. It is a very stable soil for residential construction and urban infrastructure.
Acid-Loving Plants Thrive in Zone 9a
The acidic soil of Zone 9a is a paradise for azaleas, blueberries, and camellias. While typical vegetables may need lime to thrive, the local environment is perfect for Piney Woods natives. Dig a hole and plant some acid-loving perennials to take advantage of this unique soil chemistry.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Montgomery County have?
Montgomery County's soil is classified as Fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 54% sand, 25% silt, and 15% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Montgomery County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Montgomery County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Montgomery County?
Montgomery County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Montgomery County's soil?
Based on Montgomery County's Fine sand texture, pH of 5.1, and Moderately well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Montgomery County?
Montgomery County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Montgomery County
Soil Verdict
Montgomery County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°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
Montgomery County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average. The zone range of 9a-9b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Montgomery 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.