• Covering well over 200,000 square miles, Texas has a large variety of soils. The Lone Star State's diverse topography--with warm coastal plains and rough mountain ranges--is perfect for planting various plants and encouraging their growth.
  
  

Blackland

• Layered throughout Texas' east central section from north to south, the Blackland Prairie contains fertile black clay and alkaline soil. Rich in calcium, the belt's fertility is among the highest in the state. As a result, many plant and animal species reside in the ecosystem.
  
  

Sandy Loam

• Located in the Piney Woods area of eastern Texas, Sandy Loam soil is high in pH and well-balanced with sand and red clay, making it great for agricultural production. Sandy Loam's large soil particles are also ideal for plants requiring considerable soil drainage, which guards against plant diseases.
  
  

Yellow Clay

• Edward's Plateau, a region in west central Texas, is rich in yellow clay, thinly spread out with solid limestone directly underneath. While not the best choice for agriculture due to its poor ventilation, gardeners can place it under raised beds to better chances for a growing garden.
  
  

Alluvial Soil

• Texas' west central gulf region is abundant in alluvial soil or "black gumbo clay," as it is routinely called. Nutrient-rich and usually damp due to the region's persistent rainfall, the clay can easily retain water. Certain sections in the layer are high in salt, however, and therefore unsuitable for cultivation. Where drainage is possible, the clay contains much organic matter, great for planting.