Val Verde County Soil Data
Val Verde County, Texas
Avg pH
7.6
Texture
Silty clay
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Val Verde County, Texas
Alkaline Mollisols on the Border
Val Verde County is characterized by Mollisols with an alkaline pH of 7.63, significantly higher than the national median of 6.5. These dark, base-rich soils are traditionally associated with productive grasslands.
Silty Clay for Nutrient Holding
The dominant texture is silty clay, consisting of 38.9% silt and 26.3% clay. This dense arrangement offers superior nutrient-holding capacity compared to sandier soils, though it can become quite sticky when wet.
Rich Organic Matter, Low Water Capacity
With 2.48% organic matter, these soils are far richer in carbon than the Texas average of 1.66%. However, the available water capacity of 0.111 in/in is lower than the state average, meaning the soil dries out quickly.
Balanced Drainage and High Infiltration
These soils are well-drained and fall into Hydrologic Group B, allowing for moderate water infiltration. This makes the soil stable for building and provides a healthy balance for plant roots to breathe.
Thriving in Zone 8b
Val Verde County's 8b hardiness zone is perfect for heat-hardy herbs like rosemary and lavender that enjoy alkaline conditions. Your soil's high organic content provides a natural boost to any garden you choose to plant.
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: Silty clay
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Val Verde County have?
Val Verde County's soil is classified as Silty clay. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 39% silt, and 26% clay. Clay soils retain water and nutrients but can have drainage challenges.
Is Val Verde County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Val Verde County's soil has a pH of 7.6, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Val Verde County?
Val Verde 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 Val Verde County's soil?
Based on Val Verde County's Silty clay texture, pH of 7.6, 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 Val Verde County?
Val Verde County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Val Verde 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.