Douglas County Soil Data

Douglas County, Nebraska

Avg pH

7.0

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

2.2%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Douglas County, Nebraska

Urban Soils of Douglas County

With an average pH of 6.95, Douglas County soil is slightly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This neutral-leaning profile supports the diverse landscaping found in the Omaha metro area.

Heavy Silt for Deep Stability

The soil is comprised of 54.2% silt and 23.9% clay, creating a dense and fertile medium. The relatively low sand content of 21.8% means this soil holds together well but can be prone to compaction.

Solid Water Retention for Gardening

Available water capacity is 0.180 in/in, which beats the state average and helps urban gardens survive heat. Organic matter is 2.24%, indicating a need for compost to reach the state average of 3.32%.

Urban Hydrology and Drainage

While official drainage classes are unlisted, the high silt and clay percentages suggest moderate to slow drainage. Homebuilders and gardeners should ensure proper grading to manage runoff effectively.

Thriving in Zone 6a

As one of Nebraska's warmer pockets in Zone 6a, you can grow a wide range of perennials and even some tender shrubs. It is a fantastic environment for intensive vegetable gardening or lush urban lawns.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 21.8%
Silt: 54.2%
Clay: 23.9%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

7.0pH
6.95497500827243
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: Silt 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 Douglas County have?

Douglas County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 22% sand, 54% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Douglas County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Douglas County's soil has a pH of 7.0, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.

What is the drainage class for Douglas County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Douglas County.

What crops or plants grow well in Douglas County's soil?

Based on Douglas County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 7.0, 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 Douglas County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Douglas 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.