Walker County Soil Data
Walker County, Texas
Avg pH
5.8
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.4%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Walker County, Texas
Notably Acidic Piney Woods Soil
Walker County has an average pH of 5.83, making it significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This low pH level is common in East Texas and contrasts sharply with the state average of 7.09. The county's overall soil score of 25.6 sits just below the Texas average.
Sand-Driven Composition for Walker County
The soil mix consists of 52.8% sand, 18.6% silt, and 22.3% clay. This high sand content provides good initial drainage but can lead to rapid nutrient leaching. The clay component is necessary to provide the structure needed for the region's dense timber growth.
Lower Organic Matter and Water Capacity
The organic matter content is 1.35%, which falls below both the state average of 1.66% and the national average of 2.0%. An available water capacity of 0.123 in/in suggests the soil holds less moisture than the average Texas soil. Gardeners may need to supplement with compost to boost productivity.
Managing Slow Infiltration Rates
Classified under Hydrologic Group D, these soils exhibit high runoff potential due to restricted water movement. While the surface is sandy, deeper layers often contain restrictive materials that slow drainage significantly. Proper site grading is essential for any construction or large-scale gardening project.
Productive Gardening in Zone 9a
Walker County sits in Hardiness Zone 9a, where blueberries and azaleas thrive in the naturally acidic soil. Adding lime can help gardeners who wish to grow vegetables that prefer more neutral conditions. With the right amendments, this warm climate supports a lush and varied landscape.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Walker County have?
Walker County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 53% sand, 19% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Walker County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Walker County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Walker County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Walker County.
What crops or plants grow well in Walker County's soil?
Based on Walker County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.8, 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 Walker County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Walker County is not currently available in our dataset.
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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.