Pecos County Soil Data
Pecos County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Pecos County, Texas
Alkaline Desert Foundations
Pecos County features alkaline soil with a pH of 7.62, exceeding both the national median and the Texas average. This mineral-heavy soil is typical of the Trans-Pecos region. It offers a unique chemistry that supports a specific range of desert-adapted vegetation.
Silt-Dominant Textures
With 42.5% silt, 26.2% sand, and 25.9% clay, this soil has a smoother, finer feel than many sandy Texas counties. Silt-heavy soils can be very fertile but are often prone to erosion if left uncovered. The balanced clay content helps provide some necessary structural stability.
High Organic Matter, Low Water
Organic matter is impressive at 1.94%, well above the state average of 1.66%. However, the available water capacity is lower at 0.123 in/in, reflecting the arid nature of the region. The overall soil score is 24.5, suggesting some challenges for non-native plants.
Managing High Runoff Rates
The county is classified under Hydrologic Group D, meaning it has a very slow rate of water infiltration. In this desert climate, rare heavy rains can quickly lead to flash runoff rather than deep soil soaking. Landowners must focus on capturing water where it falls to maximize moisture.
Desert Gems in Zone 8a
Hardiness Zone 8a and silty soil make this a great place for agave, yucca, and other succulents. The high organic matter supports native grasses and desert blooms with surprising vigor. For a successful garden, choose native Trans-Pecos plants that thrive on limited water and high pH.
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 7.6. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pecos County have?
Pecos County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 26% sand, 43% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pecos County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pecos County's soil has a pH of 7.6, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Pecos County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pecos County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pecos County's soil?
Based on Pecos County's Loam texture, pH of 7.6, 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 Pecos County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pecos County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pecos County
Soil Verdict
Pecos County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°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
Pecos County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 8a-8b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pecos 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.