Schleicher County Soil Data
Schleicher County, Texas
Avg pH
7.9
Texture
Clay
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.8%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Schleicher County, Texas
High Alkalinity on the Plateau
Schleicher County soil is significantly alkaline with an average pH of 7.94. This is much higher than the national median of 6.5, requiring specific plant selections that can tolerate high-calcium environments.
Heavy Clay and Slow Movement
With a composition of 41.1% clay and only 21.6% sand, this soil is heavy and can be difficult to work when wet. The 37.3% silt content adds some structure, but the high clay dominates the physical properties of the land.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
The soil boasts a massive 3.75% organic matter content, more than double the Texas state average of 1.66%. Available water capacity matches the state average at 0.131 in/in, offering great nutrient retention for native grasses.
Slow Infiltration in Group D
The soil belongs to hydrologic group D, which indicates very slow infiltration and high runoff potential. This makes the land prone to standing water after heavy rains, a critical factor for anyone planning foundations or drainage systems.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8a
In Zone 8a, you can successfully grow native wildflowers and drought-resistant shrubs that love alkaline earth. Start a garden with desert-adapted species to take full advantage of the high organic fertility found here.
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
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Schleicher County have?
Schleicher County's soil is classified as Clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 37% silt, and 41% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Schleicher County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Schleicher County's soil has a pH of 7.9, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Schleicher County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Schleicher County.
What crops or plants grow well in Schleicher County's soil?
Based on Schleicher County's Clay texture, pH of 7.9, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, wetland plants and crops tolerant of slow drainage.
What USDA soil order is found in Schleicher County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Schleicher County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Schleicher 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.