Ward County Soil Data
Ward County, Texas
Avg pH
7.9
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.0%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Ward County, Texas
Highly Alkaline Desert Soils
Ward County's soil is very alkaline, featuring an average pH of 7.95. This is significantly higher than the national median of 6.5 and even the Texas average of 7.09. The overall soil score is quite low at 6.5, reflecting the challenges of this arid environment.
Sand and Silt Dominance
The soil composition is 53.3% sand and 26.1% silt, leaving only 20.6% clay. This mixture leads to a powdery, loose texture that is common in West Texas basins. While easy to dig, these soils struggle to hold onto nutrients and structural form.
Limited Organic Matter in Arid Land
Organic matter is very low at 1.03%, well below the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is also low at 0.114 in/in compared to the Texas average of 0.133. These numbers indicate that plants will require frequent irrigation and significant nutrient supplementation.
Slow Infiltration Despite Sandy Texture
Ward County is classified in Hydrologic Group D, indicating high runoff potential during infrequent, heavy rain events. The soil's ability to absorb water is restricted, which can lead to flash flooding in desert landscapes. Careful water management is required to prevent erosion in these conditions.
Desert Gardening in Zone 8a
In USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, native desert plants and succulents are the most successful choices for Ward County. Traditional vegetable gardening will require raised beds and significant soil amendments to overcome the high alkalinity. Embrace the unique West Texas climate by choosing drought-tolerant species.
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 Ward County have?
Ward County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 53% sand, 26% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ward County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ward County's soil has a pH of 7.9, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Ward County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Ward County.
What crops or plants grow well in Ward County's soil?
Based on Ward County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 7.9, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Ward County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Ward 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.