Harlan County Soil Data
Harlan County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.9
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.9%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Harlan County, Nebraska
Rich Mollisols of the Great Plains
Harlan County is defined by Mollisols, the world's most productive agricultural soils, with an average pH of 6.93. This puts the county slightly above the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.79. With a soil score of 73.2, these lands represent some of the best growing conditions in the state.
Classic Silt Loam Versatility
The dominant silt loam texture comes from a mix of 56.2% silt and 24% sand. This high silt content makes the soil easy to till and provides a smooth, floury feel when dry. With only 19.8% clay, the soil maintains enough structure to hold nutrients without becoming a heavy, unworkable mess.
Top-Tier Organic Matter Levels
Organic matter levels reach 3.87%, comfortably beating the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. This high fertility is paired with an available water capacity of 0.204 in/in, which is nearly 20% higher than the state average. These factors combine to create a powerhouse for plant growth and resilience.
Well Drained for Diverse Use
These soils are classified as well drained and belong to hydrologic group B. This means they have a moderate infiltration rate, making them ideal for both large-scale farming and home construction. You can expect water to move through the profile steadily, reducing the risk of standing water after storms.
Warmer Opportunities in Zone 6a
As a rare Nebraska pocket of zone 6a, Harlan County supports a slightly longer growing season than its northern neighbors. The rich Mollisol base is perfect for everything from commercial grains to lush backyard vegetable patches. Get your seeds in the ground early to maximize the potential of this high-scoring soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt 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 Harlan County have?
Harlan County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 24% sand, 56% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Harlan County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Harlan 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 Harlan County?
Harlan County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Harlan County's soil?
Based on Harlan County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.9, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Harlan County?
Harlan County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Harlan County
Soil Verdict
Harlan 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
Harlan County is somewhat warmer than the Nebraska statewide average.
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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.