Dawson County Soil Data
Dawson County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Dawson County, Nebraska
Balanced pH for Prime Agriculture
Dawson County soil averages a pH of 6.91, placing it slightly above the state average of 6.79 but remains very close to neutral. This chemistry supports a vast range of crops without needing significant chemical adjustments.
Silt-Rich Loam Composition
The soil contains 48.3% silt, 31.1% sand, and 19.4% clay. This high silt content makes the soil feel silky and ensures it is excellent at holding both water and essential plant nutrients.
Superior Water Storage Capacity
Dawson County shines in moisture retention, with an available water capacity of 0.198 in/in, well above the state average. Although organic matter is 2.12%, the soil's structure makes it highly efficient for irrigation.
Consistent Moisture for Crops
The silt-clay balance indicates a soil that can absorb and hold significant rainfall. This makes it a reliable choice for agriculture, though it may require careful management to avoid surface erosion during heavy Nebraska storms.
Vibrant Gardens in Zone 5b
Hardiness zone 5b is ideal for diverse gardens, from sweet corn to perennial flowers. With a strong soil score of 62.5, this county offers some of the most dependable growing conditions in central Nebraska.
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 Dawson County have?
Dawson County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 31% sand, 48% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Dawson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Dawson County's soil has a pH of 6.9, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Dawson County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Dawson County.
What crops or plants grow well in Dawson County's soil?
Based on Dawson County's Loam texture, pH of 6.9, 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 Dawson County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Dawson County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Dawson County
Soil Verdict
Dawson 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
Dawson County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Dawson 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.