San Saba County Soil Data
San Saba County, Texas
Avg pH
7.3
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in San Saba County, Texas
Alfisols of the Pecan Capital
San Saba features a dominant soil order of Alfisols with a fine sandy loam texture. The average pH of 7.27 is slightly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the Texas average of 7.09.
Sandy Loam for Balanced Drainage
The soil contains 44.9% sand, 29.4% silt, and 24.7% clay. This high sand content provides excellent workability and drainage, which is ideal for the county's famous pecan orchards.
Exceeding State Organic Standards
Organic matter sits at 1.78%, beating the Texas state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is 0.130 in/in, providing a solid foundation for crops despite the semi-arid conditions.
Well Drained and Reliable
The land is classified as well drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. This combination suggests moderate infiltration rates, making it a reliable choice for both residential building and intensive agriculture.
Grow Pecans and More in Zone 8b
San Saba's Zone 8b climate is perfect for pecans, peaches, and hearty summer squash. Your garden will flourish in these well-drained loams if you provide consistent irrigation during the peak summer heat.
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: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does San Saba County have?
San Saba County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 45% sand, 29% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is San Saba County's soil acidic or alkaline?
San Saba County's soil has a pH of 7.3, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for San Saba County?
San Saba 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 San Saba County's soil?
Based on San Saba County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 7.3, 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 San Saba County?
San Saba County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for San Saba 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.