Reeves County Soil Data
Reeves County, Texas
Avg pH
7.8
Texture
Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Reeves County, Texas
Alkaline Soils in West Texas
Reeves County features a high pH level of 7.81, which is notably more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 7.09. While taxonomic data for the area is limited, this pH level indicates a mineral-rich environment typical of the Trans-Pecos region.
A Balanced Silt-Heavy Mix
The soil contains 30.2% sand, 39.7% silt, and 27.7% clay. This composition offers a stable structure for roots, though the high silt content means the earth can become easily compacted if worked while wet.
Average Organic Matter, Low Water Retention
Organic matter sits at 1.66%, matching the state average exactly but falling below the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is 0.122 in/in, which is lower than the state average of 0.133 and suggests a need for consistent irrigation.
High Runoff Risk with Group D
The land belongs to Hydrologic Group D, indicating very slow infiltration rates and high runoff potential. This poses challenges for drainage management in both agricultural and residential development projects.
Desert Gardening in Zone 8a
Reeves County falls in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, where heat-hardy crops like peppers and okra thrive. Local gardeners find success by using mulch to preserve the limited water capacity of this arid soil.
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: Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Reeves County have?
Reeves County's soil is classified as Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 30% sand, 40% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Reeves County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Reeves 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 Reeves County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Reeves County.
What crops or plants grow well in Reeves County's soil?
Based on Reeves County's Clay 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 Reeves County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Reeves County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Reeves 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.