Chase County Soil Data
Chase County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.1
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Chase County, Nebraska
High-pH Mollisols of western Nebraska
Chase County's Mollisols feature a pH of 7.08, sitting comfortably above the national median of 6.5. This alkaline profile is typical of the western plains where lime content is naturally higher in the earth.
Gritty silt loam textures
The texture is silt loam, but it carries a significant 46.8% sand component alongside 38.8% silt. This creates a gritty but productive mix that is easier to manage than heavier clay soils.
Matching the state water average
Available water capacity is 0.169 in/in, nearly matching the Nebraska state average of 0.172. Organic matter is 1.98%, reflecting the more arid climate compared to the state's eastern counties.
Surprising drainage challenges in lowlands
Despite high sand content, these soils are classified as very poorly drained in certain areas and fall into Hydrologic Group B/D. Local topography can lead to significant water pooling in low-lying spots.
Native gardening in zone 5b
This soil is excellent for native prairie wildflowers and drought-resistant shrubs that thrive in alkaline conditions. Gardeners should use mulch to help boost the 1.98% organic matter and retain moisture.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
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 Chase County have?
Chase County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 47% sand, 39% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Chase County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Chase 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 Chase County?
Chase County has a dominant drainage class of "Very poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Chase County's soil?
Based on Chase County's Silt loam texture, pH of 7.1, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Chase County?
Chase 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: Chase County
Soil Verdict
Chase County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°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
Chase County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Chase 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.