Refugio County Soil Data
Refugio County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.0
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Refugio County, Texas
Neutral Coastal Plains Soil
Refugio County maintains a pH of 7.05, placing it almost perfectly in line with the Texas state average of 7.09. This neutral balance is closer to the national median of 6.5 than many of its neighbors, providing a versatile foundation for various plants.
Sandy Texture Dominates the Profile
With 52.7% sand, this soil offers excellent aeration but limited nutrient hold compared to heavier clays. Silt and clay make up 21.9% and 25.4% respectively, creating a texture that is generally easy to work.
Moderate Fertility and Water Capacity
The organic matter content is 1.67%, just slightly above the state average of 1.66%. Available water capacity matches the regional low of 0.122 in/in, meaning the soil dries out faster than the state average of 0.133.
High Potential for Water Runoff
Classified in Hydrologic Group D, the soil suffers from poor water movement through the profile. This can lead to surface pooling during heavy Gulf Coast rains, requiring careful landscape grading.
Subtropical Potential in Zone 9b
The warm 9b hardiness zone allows for a nearly year-round growing season for citrus and hardy perennials. Start your garden today with salt-tolerant species that can handle the coastal breeze and sandy grounds.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Sandy Soil Detected
Sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out. These products boost water retention and organic matter.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Refugio County have?
Refugio County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 53% sand, 22% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Refugio County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Refugio County's soil has a pH of 7.0, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Refugio County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Refugio County.
What crops or plants grow well in Refugio County's soil?
Based on Refugio County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 7.0, 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 Refugio County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Refugio County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Refugio County
Soil Verdict
Refugio County is in USDA hardiness zone 9b, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 25°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. 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
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Refugio County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Refugio 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.