Moore County Soil Data

Moore County, Texas

Avg pH

7.7

Texture

Clay loam

Drainage

Well drained

Organic Matter

1.4%

Hydrologic Group

B

Data Story

About Soil in Moore County, Texas

Alkaline Mollisols define Moore's landscape

The county's dominant soils are Mollisols, which are typically fertile grassland soils. With a pH of 7.72, these soils are significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5.

Clay loam provides a stable base

The soil features a clay loam texture composed of 51.5% sand and 20.1% clay. This mix offers a good balance of workability and structural integrity for regional agriculture.

Strong water capacity despite lower organic matter

Organic matter sits at 1.45%, which is slightly below the Texas average of 1.66%. However, the available water capacity of 0.144 in/in exceeds the state benchmark, helping plants survive dry spells.

Well-drained ground supports steady growth

The soil is classified as well-drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. This indicates a moderate infiltration rate, making it suitable for a variety of building and farming uses.

Winter wheat thrives in zone 7a

Hardiness zone 7a allows for successful cultivation of winter wheat and hardy perennials. Start a garden with crops that enjoy well-drained, alkaline ground to see the best results.

Soil Composition

Clay loam
Sand: 51.5%
Silt: 28.4%
Clay: 20.1%
Clay loam

Soil pH

7.7pH
7.72327074420311
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Series

Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.

Hydrologic Group

Group B — Moderate Runoff

Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.

Runoff potential:Moderate

Drainage Class

Well drained

Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Clay loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Moore County have?

Moore County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 28% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Moore County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Moore County's soil has a pH of 7.7, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.

What is the drainage class for Moore County?

Moore County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Moore County's soil?

Based on Moore County's Clay loam texture, pH of 7.7, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.

What USDA soil order is found in Moore County?

Moore County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.

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.