Potter County Soil Data
Potter County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.2
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.6%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Potter County, Texas
Dark, rich Mollisols of the Panhandle
Potter County features Mollisols, a soil order prized for its dark surface and natural fertility. Its pH of 7.18 is slightly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 but remains very close to the state average.
The ideal workability of loam
The soil is a balanced loam composed of 36.0% sand, 30.8% silt, and 25.4% clay. This specific mix provides excellent nutrient retention while remaining easy to work with traditional gardening tools.
Excellent water storage for crops
Organic matter levels sit at 1.63%, which is nearly identical to the state average. The soil's available water capacity of 0.141 in/in exceeds the Texas average, providing a reliable reservoir for thirsty plants.
Well-drained land for stable building
Classified as well-drained and part of Hydrologic Group B, this soil manages rainfall efficiently. It offers a stable foundation for construction and prevents the root rot issues common in heavier soils.
Hardy growth in Zone 7a
Potter County's Zone 7a climate supports hardy perennials and traditional Panhandle crops like winter wheat. With a soil score of 34.4, this land outperforms the state average for agricultural quality.
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
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Potter County have?
Potter County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 31% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Potter County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Potter County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Potter County?
Potter 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 Potter County's soil?
Based on Potter County's Loam texture, pH of 7.2, 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 Potter County?
Potter 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Potter County
Soil Verdict
Potter 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
Potter County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Potter 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.