Terry County Soil Data
Terry County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.8
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Terry County, Texas
Alkaline Sandy Soils of the Llano Estacado
Terry County is characterized by highly alkaline soil with an average pH of 7.81. This is significantly higher than the national median of 6.5 and reflects the mineral-rich nature of the West Texas plains.
Dominated by High Sand Content
The soil is very sandy at 61.5%, with only 18.6% clay and 19.9% silt. This high sand percentage makes the ground very easy to till but also prone to wind erosion and rapid nutrient leaching.
Low Organic Matter and Water Storage
Organic matter is just 1.26%, falling below the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity of 0.124 in/in is also below the state benchmark, meaning crops here often depend heavily on supplemental irrigation.
Hydrologic Challenges for Infiltration
Classified in hydrologic group D, this soil has a very slow infiltration rate despite its sandy nature. This paradox often occurs in these regions due to subsurface layers that restrict the downward movement of water.
Cotton and Grapes in Zone 8a
Terry County is a leader in cotton and wine grape production within hardiness zone 8a. If you are starting a garden, focus on adding compost to improve the low organic matter and help hold moisture.
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: Sandy 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 Terry County have?
Terry County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 62% sand, 20% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Terry County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Terry 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 Terry County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Terry County.
What crops or plants grow well in Terry County's soil?
Based on Terry County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 7.8, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Terry County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Terry County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Terry County
Soil Verdict
Terry 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
Terry County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 7b-8a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Terry 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.