Uvalde County Soil Data
Uvalde County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.5
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Uvalde County, Texas
Young, Alkaline Inceptisols
Uvalde County features alkaline soil with a pH of 7.50, which is higher than both the Texas average of 7.09 and the national median of 6.5. These Inceptisols are relatively young soils that offer a mineral-rich foundation for agriculture.
The Ideal Loam Texture
The county is blessed with a dominant loam texture, created by a balanced mix of 33.4% sand and 30.6% clay. This specific composition is highly valued for being easy to till while still retaining enough moisture for crops.
Superior Organic Matter Levels
Uvalde County boasts a high organic matter content of 2.46%, significantly surpassing the state average of 1.66% and the national average of 2.0%. This richness contributes to a healthy soil score of 33.6.
Well Drained and Productive
The soils are classified as well-drained and belong to Hydrologic Group B. This combination allows for moderate infiltration rates, making the land resilient against both drought and minor flooding.
Grow Boldly in Zone 9a
The combination of loamy soil and the 9a hardiness zone makes Uvalde County a premier spot for growing citrus, pecans, and various vegetables. Your soil is among the most fertile in the state, so get growing today.
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 7.5. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Uvalde County have?
Uvalde County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 33% sand, 29% silt, and 31% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Uvalde County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Uvalde County's soil has a pH of 7.5, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Uvalde County?
Uvalde 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 Uvalde County's soil?
Based on Uvalde County's Loam texture, pH of 7.5, 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 Uvalde County?
Uvalde County's dominant soil order is Inceptisols. Inceptisols are young soils with weak horizon development. They occur in a wide range of climates and parent materials.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Uvalde County
Soil Verdict
Uvalde 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
Uvalde County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Uvalde 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.