Parmer County Soil Data
Parmer County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Parmer County, Texas
Highly Alkaline High Plains
Parmer County has a high pH of 7.82, making it much more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile is common in the semi-arid Panhandle where minerals accumulate in the soil. Successful growing here often requires choosing plants that can tolerate high calcium levels.
Well-Rounded Silt and Sand
The soil is a mix of 45.9% sand, 28.9% silt, and 25.3% clay. This distribution creates a fairly heavy but stable soil that holds its shape well. The clay content helps retain nutrients that might otherwise wash away in sandier regions.
Rich in Organic Matter
The soil boasts 1.96% organic matter, which is significantly higher than the Texas average of 1.66%. Its available water capacity of 0.150 in/in also beats the state benchmark of 0.133. These metrics indicate a fertile environment capable of supporting high-yield agriculture.
Slow Infiltration Risks
Despite its high water capacity, the soil falls into Hydrologic Group D, indicating slow infiltration. This means that while the soil can hold a lot of water, it takes a long time for that water to soak in. Irrigation should be managed carefully to avoid pooling on the surface.
Cotton and Corn Country
In Zone 7a, this county is a prime location for cotton, corn, and sunflowers. The high organic matter provides a great boost for these heavy-feeding crops. Home gardeners should look for alkaline-tolerant shrubs and hardy root vegetables.
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
Alkaline Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 7.8. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Parmer County have?
Parmer County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 46% sand, 29% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Parmer County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Parmer County's soil has a pH of 7.8, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Parmer County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Parmer County.
What crops or plants grow well in Parmer County's soil?
Based on Parmer County's Loam texture, pH of 7.8, 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 Parmer County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Parmer County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Parmer County
Soil Verdict
Parmer County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°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. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Parmer County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Parmer 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.