Brown County Soil Data

Brown County, Nebraska

Avg pH

6.6

Texture

Loamy Sand

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

3.3%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Brown County, Nebraska

Neutral acidity in Brown County soils

Brown County features a pH of 6.62, which sits very close to the national median of 6.5 and slightly below the state average of 6.79. While specific taxonomic data is limited, this near-neutral balance provides a stable environment for most regional plant species.

Sandy textures define the landscape

The soil is heavily sand-based, consisting of 75.4% sand and only 8.2% clay. This high-sand profile ensures excellent aeration and easy workability but may require more frequent watering to maintain moisture.

Rich organic matter meets low water storage

Organic matter content stands at 3.30%, nearly matching the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. However, the available water capacity of 0.118 in/in is significantly lower than the state benchmark of 0.172 in/in.

Rapid drainage in the local terrain

While specific drainage classes are not recorded for this area, the 75.4% sand content suggests naturally fast-moving water. This physical profile requires careful irrigation management to prevent nutrient leaching during heavy rains.

Gardening in hardiness zone 5b

Gardeners in zone 5b can leverage the 3.30% organic matter to support resilient native grasses and shrubs. The soil favors drought-tolerant species that thrive in sandy conditions and rapid-draining environments.

Soil Composition

Loamy Sand
Sand: 75.4%
Silt: 14.0%
Clay: 8.2%
Loamy Sand

Soil pH

6.6pH
6.61876336822328
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

Soil Series

Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.

Hydrologic Group

Hydrologic group data not available.

Drainage Class

Drainage class data not available.

Soil Profile

Dominant texture: Loamy Sand

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Brown County have?

Brown County's soil is classified as Loamy Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 75% sand, 14% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Brown County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Brown 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 Brown County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Brown County.

What crops or plants grow well in Brown County's soil?

Based on Brown County's Loamy Sand texture, pH of 6.6, 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 Brown County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Brown County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.