Cedar County Soil Data
Cedar County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.1
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Somewhat excessively drained
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Cedar County, Nebraska
Alkaline Entisols in northern Nebraska
Cedar County's Entisols have a pH of 7.10, which is more alkaline than the national 6.5 median. This slightly basic profile influences how plants absorb minerals from the silt-heavy ground.
Balanced silt loam composition
The land is primarily silt loam, consisting of 48.0% silt and 28.4% sand. With 23.6% clay, the soil offers a balanced texture that supports roots while maintaining its shape.
Strong water retention for crops
Water capacity is strong at 0.182 in/in, beating the state average of 0.172. Organic matter content measures 2.30%, providing necessary biological fuel for local agricultural productivity.
Somewhat excessively drained terrain
These soils are somewhat excessively drained and fall into Hydrologic Group D. This suggests water moves through the profile very quickly, which can be an advantage for construction but may require extra irrigation.
Cold-hardy crops for zone 5a
Gardeners in zone 5a can take advantage of the high water capacity to cultivate robust crops. Brassicas and root vegetables are particularly well-suited for this alkaline, silt-rich environment.
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
Somewhat excessively drained
Water is removed rapidly. Soils may be droughty and have limited water-holding capacity.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cedar County have?
Cedar County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 28% sand, 48% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cedar County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cedar County's soil has a pH of 7.1, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Cedar County?
Cedar County has a dominant drainage class of "Somewhat excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Cedar County's soil?
Based on Cedar County's Silt loam texture, pH of 7.1, and Somewhat excessively drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Cedar County?
Cedar 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.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Cedar County
Soil Verdict
Cedar County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°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. With extreme winter lows, any marginally hardy plants need heavy mulch and wind protection. 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
Cedar County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5a-5b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cedar 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.