Wood County Soil Data
Wood County, Texas
Avg pH
5.5
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.2%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Wood County, Texas
The Acidic Sandy Lands of East Texas
Wood County features significantly acidic soil with an average pH of 5.51, much lower than the national median of 6.5. This acidity is typical for the Piney Woods region, where rainfall leaches basic minerals away. Taxonomic data is limited, but the chemistry is ideal for acid-loving plants.
High Sand and Low Clay Content
The soil is 64.7% sand, 20.9% silt, and only 11.6% clay. This high sand percentage makes the soil very light and easy to till, but it lacks the structural stability of heavier soils. Nutrients can wash away quickly through this porous medium.
Lower Fertility and Water Capacity
Organic matter is low at 1.21%, falling well below the Texas average of 1.66%. The available water capacity is also lower than the state benchmark at 0.115 in/in. These factors contribute to a soil score of 17.3, indicating that significant amendments may be needed for intensive gardening.
Slow Infiltration in Group D
The soil belongs to Hydrologic Group D, which is surprising given the high sand content; this suggests restrictive layers beneath the surface. These layers can lead to high runoff despite the sandy topsoil. Proper site preparation is important for building or establishing permanent orchards.
Thriving with Blueberries in Zone 8b
In Zone 8b, your acidic soil is perfect for blueberries, azaleas, and pine trees. Since the soil is sandy and has low organic matter, regular applications of compost and fertilizer are necessary for vegetables. Embrace the unique East Texas chemistry to grow beautiful, acid-loving specialty crops.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Wood County have?
Wood County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 65% sand, 21% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Wood County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Wood County's soil has a pH of 5.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Wood County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Wood County.
What crops or plants grow well in Wood County's soil?
Based on Wood County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.5, 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 Wood County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Wood County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Wood 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.