Motley County Soil Data
Motley County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Motley County, Texas
Dry Aridisols shape the terrain
The county is characterized by Aridisols, which are soils common to dry climates. The average pH of 7.54 is more alkaline than the Texas state average of 7.09.
Loamy textures favor agricultural use
A loamy mix of 55.0% sand and 18.2% clay creates an adaptable medium for plants. This composition provides decent drainage while the 26.2% silt helps retain essential nutrients.
Standard water retention for West Texas
Organic matter is relatively low at 1.19%, falling behind the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity matches the Texas average of 0.133 in/in exactly, offering moderate drought resistance.
Well-drained soil prevents ponding
The soil is well-drained and categorized under hydrologic group B. This means water moves through the profile efficiently, which is ideal for crops but may require consistent irrigation.
Hardy natives thrive in zone 7b
Zone 7b is an excellent environment for drought-tolerant native plants and summer squashes. Take advantage of the loamy ground and start a resilient West Texas landscape.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Alkaline Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 7.5. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Motley County have?
Motley County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 55% sand, 26% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Motley County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Motley County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Motley County?
Motley 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 Motley County's soil?
Based on Motley County's Loam texture, pH of 7.5, 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 Motley County?
Motley County's dominant soil order is Aridisols. Aridisols are soils of dry environments with low organic matter. They often have salt or calcium carbonate accumulations at depth.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Motley County
Soil Verdict
Motley County is in USDA hardiness zone 7b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 5°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
Motley County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Motley 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.