Wilbarger County Soil Data
Wilbarger County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.3
Texture
Clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.0%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Wilbarger County, Texas
Alkaline Alfisols of the Red River Valley
Wilbarger County is dominated by Alfisols, which are typically fertile soils often found under forests or grasslands. The average pH of 7.30 is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and slightly higher than the Texas average. These clay loam soils provide a robust, if somewhat basic, environment for agriculture.
The Texture of Clay Loam
The soil composition is 48.8% sand, 26.4% silt, and 20.9% clay, creating a classic clay loam texture. This mix offers a good balance between the drainage of sand and the nutrient retention of clay. Farmers find these soils manageable, though they require careful timing to avoid compaction when wet.
Thirsty Soils with Low Organic Content
Organic matter in Wilbarger is 1.03%, significantly lower than the Texas average of 1.66%. Despite low organic levels, the available water capacity matches the Wichita neighbor at 0.139 in/in, surpassing the state benchmark. This capacity is vital for sustaining crops in a region prone to dry spells.
Well-Drained Ground with Hydrologic Group C
The land is classified as well-drained, which is excellent for preventing root rot in sensitive plants. It belongs to Hydrologic Group C, indicating a somewhat slow infiltration rate when the soil is thoroughly wet. This combination makes it suitable for both grazing and cultivated crops.
Resilient Gardening in Zone 8a
In Zone 8a, your garden will thrive with plants like okra, peppers, and native wildflowers that handle alkaline conditions. Because the soil score is 25.3, just below the state average, adding compost can help improve the low organic matter. Your well-drained soil is a great asset for avoiding drainage issues in the backyard.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Wilbarger County have?
Wilbarger County's soil is classified as Clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 49% sand, 26% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Wilbarger County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Wilbarger County's soil has a pH of 7.3, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Wilbarger County?
Wilbarger County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Wilbarger County's soil?
Based on Wilbarger County's Clay loam texture, pH of 7.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Wilbarger County?
Wilbarger 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: Wilbarger County
Soil Verdict
Wilbarger 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
Wilbarger County closely matches the Texas average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 7b-8a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Wilbarger 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.