Roberts County Soil Data

Roberts County, Texas

Avg 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

Loam
Sand: 47.6%
Silt: 29.9%
Clay: 22.1%
Loam

Soil pH

7.6pH
7.60544727920392
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 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.

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.