Cherry County Soil Data

Cherry County, Nebraska

Avg 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

Loam
Sand: 68.9%
Silt: 11.3%
Clay: 6.8%
Loam

Soil pH

6.6pH
6.57718955963042
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: Loam

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 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.

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.