Travis County Soil Data
Travis County, Texas
Avg pH
7.1
Texture
Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Travis County, Texas
Neutral Soils in the Heart of Texas
Travis County features a neutral pH of 7.09, which perfectly aligns with the Texas state average. This level sits slightly above the national median pH of 6.5, providing a balanced environment for most Central Texas landscapes.
A Heavy Clay and Silt Balance
The soil is a heavy mix containing 32.1% clay and 30.6% silt, balanced by 29.0% sand. This high clay content suggests excellent nutrient retention but requires careful management to prevent heavy compaction in urban gardens.
Organic Richness Above State Averages
At 1.84%, the organic matter content in Travis County exceeds the state average of 1.66%. However, the available water capacity of 0.129 in/in is slightly lower than the state benchmark of 0.133 in/in.
Slow Infiltration and Runoff Challenges
While specific drainage classes are not recorded, the county falls into Hydrologic Group D, indicating very slow infiltration rates. This classification means the soil is prone to runoff during the heavy rain events common to the Hill Country.
Lush Possibilities in Zone 9a
The mild 9a hardiness zone allows Travis County gardeners to grow heat-tolerant staples like okra, peppers, and native lantana. With a soil score of 35.1—well above the state average of 28.8—your gardening project has a strong foundation for success.
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 Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Travis County have?
Travis County's soil is classified as Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 29% sand, 31% silt, and 32% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Travis County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Travis County's soil has a pH of 7.1, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Travis County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Travis County.
What crops or plants grow well in Travis County's soil?
Based on Travis County's Clay Loam texture, pH of 7.1, 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 Travis County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Travis County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Travis 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.