Clay County Soil Data
Clay County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Clay County, Nebraska
Acidic and Silt-Rich Profiles
Clay County features a unique soil profile with an average pH of 6.04, making it significantly more acidic than the state average of 6.79. While taxonomic data is limited for this region, the chemical profile suggests a need for lime treatments in some agricultural settings.
Silt-Dominant Mix for Nutrient Retention
With a high silt content of 56.1% and 22.4% clay, these soils are exceptionally good at holding onto nutrients. The low sand content of 18.6% means the soil feels smooth and can be prone to compaction if worked when wet.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
This county boasts a high organic matter content of 4.61%, far exceeding the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. Combined with a high available water capacity of 0.211 in/in, this soil provides a powerhouse environment for plant growth.
Managing Dense Hydrology
The high silt and clay percentages suggest these soils move water slowly through the profile. While specific drainage class data is unavailable, the high water capacity indicates the land retains moisture well through dry spells.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 6a
Zone 6a offers a slightly longer growing season, making it ideal for melons and tomatoes that love the county's nutrient-dense soil. With an impressive soil score of 76.9, this is some of the most productive land in the region.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Clay County have?
Clay County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 19% sand, 56% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Clay County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Clay County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Clay County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Clay County.
What crops or plants grow well in Clay County's soil?
Based on Clay County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.0, 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 Clay County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Clay County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Clay County
Soil Verdict
Clay 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
Clay County is somewhat warmer than the Nebraska statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Clay 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.