Gage County Soil Data
Gage County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.5
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Gage County, Nebraska
Gage County's Neutral Growing Power
Gage County soils are slightly acidic with a pH of 6.48, placing them almost exactly at the national median of 6.5. This chemical balance is ideal for nutrient availability and supports a wide variety of agricultural applications in Southeast Nebraska.
Clay-Rich Silt for Better Structure
The soil contains 51.7% silt and 27.9% clay, creating a heavier texture than many neighboring counties. This high clay content provides excellent structure and helps the soil hold onto vital plant nutrients over time.
Strong Organic Levels and Retention
At 3.02%, organic matter is healthy and approaches the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. The soil's ability to hold water is also strong, with a capacity of 0.194 in/in compared to the state average of 0.172.
Natural Buffers Against Drought
Specific hydrologic groups are not listed, but the significant clay percentage suggests slower drainage and high water retention. This provides a natural buffer against drought but may require patience before tilling after heavy rains.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 6a
The warmer 6a hardiness zone allows for a longer growing season than much of the state. With a high soil score of 75.6, this is prime land for everything from corn and soybeans to diverse home vegetable patches.
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Gage County have?
Gage County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 52% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Gage County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Gage County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Gage County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Gage County.
What crops or plants grow well in Gage County's soil?
Based on Gage County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.5, 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 Gage County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Gage County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Gage County
Soil Verdict
Gage 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
Gage County is somewhat warmer than the Nebraska statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Gage 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.