Adams County Soil Data
Adams County, Nebraska
Avg pH
6.6
Texture
Loamy fine sand
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
2.9%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Adams County, Nebraska
Young Entisol Soils Define the Landscape
Adams County is characterized by loamy fine sand from the Entisols taxonomic order. Its average pH of 6.56 aligns almost perfectly with the national median of 6.5, providing a balanced chemical foundation for plants.
A Silty Blend for Easy Working
The soil profile contains 32.1% sand, 47.4% silt, and 19.3% clay. This high silt content makes the land easy to work while maintaining enough clay to support structural integrity.
High Water Capacity Boosts Growth
With an available water capacity of 0.198 in/in, these soils exceed the state average of 0.172. While the 2.86% organic matter is lower than the Nebraska average, it remains well above the 2.0% national benchmark.
Rapid Drainage for Aerated Roots
Classified as excessively drained and part of hydrologic group A, these soils move water very quickly. This setup prevents waterlogging but means crops may need more frequent watering during dry spells.
Thriving in Zone 5b
The region sits in USDA hardiness zone 5b, ideal for corn, soybeans, and hearty root vegetables. Residents should take advantage of this high 75.5 soil score by starting a home garden this season.
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
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loamy fine sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Adams County have?
Adams County's soil is classified as Loamy fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 32% sand, 47% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Adams County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Adams 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 Adams County?
Adams County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Adams County's soil?
Based on Adams County's Loamy fine sand texture, pH of 6.6, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Adams County?
Adams County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Adams County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Nebraska
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.