Swisher County Soil Data
Swisher County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.8
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Swisher County, Texas
Alkaline Mollisols Define the High Plains
Swisher County features Mollisols, a fertile soil order known for its dark, nutrient-rich surface. The soil maintains a loam texture with a pH of 7.84, which is significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5.
A Balanced Mix of Silt and Clay
The soil composition is remarkably balanced with 31.8% sand, 35.1% silt, and 31.5% clay. This loam texture provides excellent workability for farmers while retaining the structure necessary to support heavy machinery.
High Organic Matter Boosts Growth Potential
Organic matter sits at 2.07%, surpassing both the Texas average of 1.66% and the national average. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.154 in/in, these soils offer superior moisture storage for dryland farming.
Well Drained Soils Support Steady Infiltration
The land is classified as well drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. This combination allows for moderate infiltration rates, reducing the risk of surface runoff during heavy Panhandle rainstorms.
Thriving in the Zone 7a Climate
Located in hardiness zone 7a, this soil is ideal for winter wheat, cotton, and grain sorghum. Gardeners can find great success with peppers and tomatoes by managing the alkaline pH with organic amendments.
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 7.8. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Swisher County have?
Swisher County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 35% silt, and 31% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Swisher County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Swisher County's soil has a pH of 7.8, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Swisher County?
Swisher 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 Swisher County's soil?
Based on Swisher County's Loam texture, pH of 7.8, 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 Swisher County?
Swisher 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: Swisher County
Soil Verdict
Swisher 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
Swisher County is somewhat cooler than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Swisher 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.