Shackelford County Soil Data
Shackelford County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.3
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Shackelford County, Texas
Productive Alfisols and Clay Loams
Shackelford County is characterized by Alfisols and a dominant clay loam texture. The pH of 7.30 is slightly alkaline compared to the national median of 6.5 but remains very close to the state average of 7.09.
The Balance of Clay Loam
This soil is a balanced mix of 35.7% sand, 31.9% silt, and 27.7% clay. This ratio provides the nutrient-holding power of clay without sacrificing too much of the workability found in sandier soils.
Strong Organic and Water Stats
Organic matter content is healthy at 1.85%, surpassing the Texas average of 1.66%. The available water capacity perfectly matches the state average of 0.133 in/in, supporting steady plant growth through the seasons.
Well Drained for Diverse Use
The land is well drained and categorized under hydrologic group C. This means it has a slow infiltration rate when wet, requiring careful management during heavy rainfall to protect topsoil and infrastructure.
Abundant Growth in Zone 8a
Zone 8a provides a versatile climate for Shackelford gardeners to grow everything from herbs to hardy fruit trees. With a soil score of 32.3—well above the state average of 28.8—your gardening efforts are likely to be rewarded.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Shackelford County have?
Shackelford County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 32% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Shackelford County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Shackelford 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 Shackelford County?
Shackelford 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 Shackelford County's soil?
Based on Shackelford County's Clay 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 Shackelford County?
Shackelford 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Shackelford County
Soil Verdict
Shackelford County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°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. 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.
Regional Context
Shackelford County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Shackelford 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.