Tyler County Soil Data
Tyler County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Tyler County, Texas
Strongly Acidic East Texas Soils
With an average pH of 5.12, Tyler County possesses some of the most acidic soil in the state. This measurement is drastically lower than the Texas average of 7.09 and the national median of 6.5.
Sandy Texture Dominates the Land
A dominant 56.2% sand content creates a loose soil structure that resists packing but drains rapidly. Because clay only makes up 14.9% of the profile, the soil may require frequent organic amendments to boost its nutrient-holding capacity.
Top-Tier Available Water Capacity
Tyler County boasts 1.75% organic matter, which is higher than the Texas state average. This fuels an available water capacity of 0.138 in/in, providing plants with more reliable hydration than the state average of 0.133 in/in.
Hydrologic Group D Runoff Risks
The soil belongs to Hydrologic Group D, indicating a high runoff potential during heavy East Texas storms. While specific drainage classes are unlisted, this group typically signifies restricted water movement in the deeper subsoil layers.
Abundance in the 9a Zone
This county is a paradise for camellias and gardenias that love the acidic 5.12 pH and the warm 9a climate. Grab a shovel and start a garden, as your soil's water capacity provides a significant edge over other Texas regions.
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 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Tyler County have?
Tyler County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 56% sand, 29% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Tyler County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Tyler County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Tyler County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Tyler County.
What crops or plants grow well in Tyler County's soil?
Based on Tyler County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.1, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Tyler County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Tyler County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Tyler County
Soil Verdict
Tyler 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
Tyler County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Tyler 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.