Wharton County Soil Data
Wharton County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Wharton County, Texas
Slightly Acidic and Highly Productive
Wharton County features an average pH of 6.28, which is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This pH is notably lower than the Texas state average of 7.09, making it ideal for many garden crops. The county boasts an impressive soil score of 47.7, nearly double the state average.
Silty and Sandy Texture Mix
The soil composition is 46.7% sand, 30.3% silt, and 23.0% clay. This high silt percentage compared to neighboring counties improves the soil's ability to hold onto nutrients. It creates a rich, workable texture that is highly valued for agriculture.
Top-Tier Organic Matter and Water Capacity
Wharton County has a high organic matter content of 1.93%, which is nearly equal to the national average of 2.0% and well above the state average. Its available water capacity of 0.145 in/in is also superior to the state's 0.133. These numbers indicate some of the best growing potential in the region.
Managing Water on Heavy Hydrologic Soils
Despite its fertility, the soil falls into Hydrologic Group D, which means water moves through it very slowly. This can lead to saturated roots during wet seasons if proper drainage is not established. Raised beds are often the best solution for home gardeners to manage this runoff risk.
A Gardener's Paradise in Zone 9a
In Hardiness Zone 9a, the combination of high organic matter and favorable pH makes Wharton County a standout for gardening. You can successfully grow a massive variety of vegetables and fruit trees in this fertile soil. Start your garden today to take advantage of these superior conditions!
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Wharton County have?
Wharton County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 47% sand, 30% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Wharton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Wharton County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Wharton County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Wharton County.
What crops or plants grow well in Wharton County's soil?
Based on Wharton County's Loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Wharton County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Wharton County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Wharton County
Soil Verdict
Wharton 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
Wharton County is somewhat warmer than the Texas statewide average. The zone range of 9a-9b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Wharton 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.