Cherry County Soil Data
Cherry County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
8.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Cherry County, Nebraska
The Sandhills' near-perfect pH balance
Cherry County features a pH of 6.58, almost exactly matching the national median of 6.5. This neutral chemistry provides a perfectly balanced environment for a wide range of native plant life.
Dominant sand with minimal clay
This is the sandiest soil in the group, boasting an incredible 68.9% sand and only 6.8% clay. This texture ensures maximum aeration but significantly limits the soil's ability to hold onto water.
State-leading organic matter levels
The soil contains a massive 8.02% organic matter, dwarfing the state average of 3.32%. However, the water capacity is low at 0.110 in/in, meaning plants must be highly efficient with the moisture they find.
Rapid filtration in the Sandhills
While official drainage classes are missing, the 68.9% sand content indicates very rapid drainage. This profile allows water to move swiftly into the underlying aquifer, defining the unique local ecosystem.
Leveraging high organic matter in zone 5a
The 8.02% organic matter provides a huge boost for any gardener willing to manage the sandy texture. Focus on native prairie plants and deep-rooted species that can reach moisture deep beneath the surface.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
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: 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 Cherry County have?
Cherry County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 69% sand, 11% silt, and 7% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cherry County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cherry 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 Cherry County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cherry County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cherry County's soil?
Based on Cherry County's Loam 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 Cherry County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cherry County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Cherry County
Soil Verdict
Cherry 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
Cherry 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 Cherry 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.