Wichita County Soil Data

Wichita County, Texas

Avg pH

6.6

Texture

Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

1.3%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Wichita County, Texas

Balanced pH in Wichita's Rolling Plains

Wichita County features a near-neutral soil pH of 6.59, closely mirroring the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is limited for this region, the balanced acidity levels provide a stable foundation for a variety of plant life. This profile is significantly less alkaline than the Texas state average of 7.09.

A Stable Mix of Sand and Silt

The soil is comprised of 34.3% sand and 34.8% silt, with a clay content of 20.7%. This relatively even distribution suggests moderate workability for local farmers. The mix avoids the extreme heaviness of high-clay soils while maintaining enough structure to support crop roots.

Reliable Water Storage Despite Lower Organic Matter

Organic matter sits at 1.30%, which is below the state average of 1.66% and the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity of 0.139 in/in exceeds the Texas average of 0.133 in/in. This allows the ground to hold onto moisture longer during the hot North Texas summers.

Understanding Regional Water Movement

While specific drainage class data is unavailable for the county at large, the soil score of 40.9 suggests a quality level well above the state average of 28.8. Gardeners should monitor local runoff patterns, as the silt and sand ratio typically indicates moderate permeability. Building projects should still include site-specific soil testing for stability.

Growing Success in Zone 8a

Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, this county is ideal for heat-tolerant vegetables and native grasses. The slightly acidic to neutral pH allows for a wide range of gardening without heavy lime or sulfur amendments. Start your garden with confidence knowing your soil's water capacity is a regional strength.

Soil Composition

Loam
Sand: 34.3%
Silt: 34.8%
Clay: 20.7%
Loam

Soil pH

6.6pH
6.58953177355713
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Series

Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.

Hydrologic Group

Hydrologic group data not available.

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Loam

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Wichita County have?

Wichita County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 35% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Wichita County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Wichita County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.

What is the drainage class for Wichita County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Wichita County.

What crops or plants grow well in Wichita County's soil?

Based on Wichita County's Loam texture, pH of 6.6, 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 Wichita County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Wichita County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.