Potter County Soil Data

Potter County, Texas

Avg 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

Loam
Sand: 36.0%
Silt: 30.8%
Clay: 25.4%
Loam

Soil pH

7.2pH
7.17820300727967
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: 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 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.

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.