Wichita County Soil Data
Wichita County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.3%
Hydrologic Group
D
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
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
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently 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?
Wichita County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately 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 Wichita County's soil?
Based on Wichita County's Loam texture, pH of 6.6, and Moderately well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Wichita County?
Wichita County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Wichita County
Soil Verdict
Wichita County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Wichita County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Wichita 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.