Trinity County Soil Data
Trinity County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Trinity County, Texas
Acidic Profiles in the Piney Woods
Trinity County's soil is notably acidic with a pH of 5.55, falling well below the Texas average of 7.09. This level is also significantly lower than the national median of 6.5, making it ideal for acid-loving forest species.
High Sand for Easy Workability
The ground is highly sandy, composed of 55.1% sand and only 14.4% clay. While this mixture offers easy workability and excellent aeration, the low clay levels mean the soil has a harder time holding onto essential plant nutrients.
Water Storage Beats State Benchmarks
Despite having lower organic matter at 1.34% compared to the state's 1.66%, Trinity County excels in water storage. Its available water capacity of 0.135 in/in is higher than the Texas average, helping plants survive dry spells.
Managing Water in Slow-Draining Soils
The county is categorized in Hydrologic Group D, suggesting slow water movement through the soil profile despite the high sand content. This paradox requires gardeners to monitor for standing water during the wet season.
Garden Success in Zone 9a
Trinity County’s 9a hardiness zone is perfect for blueberries and azaleas that thrive in acidic, sandy environments. Although the soil score is 23.7, targeted composting can quickly turn these forest soils into a productive home garden.
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
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Trinity County have?
Trinity County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 55% sand, 30% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Trinity County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Trinity County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Trinity County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Trinity County.
What crops or plants grow well in Trinity County's soil?
Based on Trinity County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.6, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Trinity County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Trinity County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Trinity County
Soil Verdict
Trinity County is in USDA hardiness zone 9a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 20°F. Warm winters keep soil biology active nearly year-round, accelerating decomposition but increasing pest and disease pressure in topsoil.
Planting Guidance
Tropical and subtropical plants are viable. Year-round gardening is possible, though summer heat may limit some cool-season crops. Frost is rare; tender plants can overwinter with minimal protection. 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
Rapid organic matter turnover means soils can become nutrient-poor quickly; test annually and fertilize based on results. High soil temperatures favor certain soilborne pathogens; practice crop rotation and avoid overwatering.
Regional Context
Trinity County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average. The zone range of 8b-9a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Trinity 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.