Willacy County Soil Data
Willacy County, Texas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.6
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Willacy County, Texas
Sandy Coastal Soils of South Texas
Willacy County features highly alkaline soils with an average pH of 7.57, well above the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic orders are not documented here, the high alkalinity is characteristic of the Rio Grande Valley. This environment requires plants that can tolerate more basic conditions.
Dominated by Deep Sands
Sand makes up a staggering 65.0% of the soil profile, with only 15.6% silt and 19.4% clay. This high sand content means the soil is exceptionally easy to work but struggles to hold onto nutrients. It is a stark contrast to the heavier clay soils found in central parts of the state.
Low Retention in a Warm Climate
Organic matter is low at 1.23%, falling below the state average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is also quite low at 0.099 in/in, compared to the state average of 0.133 in/in. This means irrigation is essential for any consistent growing success in the county.
Fast Infiltration and High Permeability
The soil belongs to Hydrologic Group A, which indicates high infiltration rates and low runoff potential. While specific drainage classes aren't listed, Group A soils are typically the most permeable, letting water move through quickly. This is ideal for avoiding flooding but challenging for moisture-loving plants.
Subtropical Gardening in Zone 10a
Willacy is in Zone 10a, allowing for a year-round growing season that includes citrus and tropical fruits. The soil's low water capacity and high pH mean you should focus on drought-tolerant, alkaline-loving species. Adding organic mulch will be your best strategy to keep your sandy garden productive.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Alkaline Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 7.6. These products help acidify soil for better nutrient uptake.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Willacy County have?
Willacy County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 65% sand, 16% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Willacy County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Willacy County's soil has a pH of 7.6, which is mildly to moderately alkaline. Sulfur amendments can lower pH if needed.
What is the drainage class for Willacy County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Willacy County.
What crops or plants grow well in Willacy County's soil?
Based on Willacy County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 7.6, 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 Willacy County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Willacy County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Willacy County
Soil Verdict
Willacy County is in USDA hardiness zone 10a, a very warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 30°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
Willacy County is significantly warmer than the Texas average, shifting effective hardiness by roughly 1.8 zones.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Willacy 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.