Roberts County Soil Data
Roberts County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.7%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Roberts County, Texas
The Loamy Mollisols of the Panhandle
Roberts County is dominated by Mollisols, a fertile soil order typically found under grasslands. Its pH of 7.61 is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 but common for this region of the High Plains.
Loam Texture for Optimal Growth
The soil is a loam mix of 47.6% sand, 29.9% silt, and 22.1% clay. This ratio is prized by farmers for its ideal balance of drainage, aeration, and nutrient retention.
High Water Capacity for Crops
The organic matter of 1.68% exceeds the state average of 1.66%. Crucially, its available water capacity of 0.147 in/in is significantly higher than the Texas average of 0.133, making it better at surviving dry spells.
Well Drained and Ready for Use
Classified as 'Well drained' and part of Hydrologic Group B, this soil allows water to infiltrate at a moderate rate. These characteristics make it excellent for both large-scale wheat farming and residential building.
Hardy Growing in Zone 7a
Zone 7a supports cool-season crops and hardy grains that can withstand the Panhandle winters. The high water capacity makes it one of the best spots in the region to start a vegetable patch.
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
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 Roberts County have?
Roberts County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 48% sand, 30% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Roberts County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Roberts 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 Roberts County?
Roberts 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 Roberts County's soil?
Based on Roberts County's Loam texture, pH of 7.6, 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 Roberts County?
Roberts 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: Roberts County
Soil Verdict
Roberts 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
Roberts County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Roberts 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.