Cass County Soil Data
Cass County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Cass County, Nebraska
Rich Mollisols of the eastern plains
Cass County is characterized by Mollisols with a pH of 6.25, making it more acidic than the national 6.5 median. These dark, fertile soils are a legacy of the region's productive tallgrass prairie history.
Heavy silty clay loam textures
The soil is a silty clay loam, featuring a high 26.9% clay content and 55.7% silt. This heavy composition provides exceptional structural integrity and the ability to lock in vital plant nutrients.
Steady fertility and high capacity
Available water capacity reaches 0.189 in/in, surpassing the state average of 0.172. Organic matter is a healthy 2.70%, ensuring a steady supply of energy for both gardens and commercial crops.
Well-drained with slow transmission
Classified as well-drained, these soils belong to Hydrologic Group C, which features a slower rate of water transmission. This allows for deep moisture penetration without the risk of immediate saturation.
Extended growing in zone 6a
As a rare zone 6a region in Nebraska, Cass County offers a longer season for nutrient-hungry crops like tomatoes and peppers. The silty clay loam is an ideal foundation for a productive backyard garden.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cass County have?
Cass County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 15% sand, 56% silt, and 27% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cass County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cass County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Cass County?
Cass County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Cass County's soil?
Based on Cass County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Cass County?
Cass County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Cass County
Soil Verdict
Cass County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. 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
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Cass County is somewhat warmer than the Nebraska statewide average. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cass 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.