Holt County Soil Data
Holt County, Nebraska
Avg pH
6.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.1%
Hydrologic Group
D
Data Story
About Soil in Holt County, Nebraska
Sandy Loams of the Northern Plains
Holt County's soil score of 53.5 sits just below the Nebraska average, reflecting its unique northern geography. The average pH of 6.65 is nearly identical to the national median of 6.5, providing a balanced chemical environment. These Mollisols are historically significant, representing the transition into the Nebraska Sandhills.
High Sand Content Loam
The soil is classified as loam, but it leans heavily on the sandy side with 62.8% sand. Silt makes up 22.1% of the profile, while clay is low at 12.8%. This creates a coarse texture that is easy to dig but can be vulnerable to wind erosion if left exposed.
Decent Organic Matter, Low Water Storage
At 3.10%, the organic matter is healthy, nearly reaching the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. However, the available water capacity is quite low at 0.133 in/in, well below the state average of 0.172. Plants in this soil will need more frequent, shallow watering to stay hydrated.
Slow Subsurface Drainage Challenges
While the soil is surface-classified as well drained, it surprisingly falls into hydrologic group D. This indicates that while the top layer is sandy, deeper layers may restrict water movement, leading to high runoff potential during heavy rains. It is a complex system that requires careful management during wet seasons.
Cold-Hardy Planting in Zone 5a
Holt County is in hardiness zone 5a, meaning you should select plants that can survive harsh, cold winters. Potatoes and cool-weather greens thrive in this loose, sandy loam. Focus on building up your soil with mulch to improve that low water capacity for a more successful harvest.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group D — High Runoff
Clay soils with very slow infiltration rates. Highest runoff potential. These soils have a permanent high water table or are shallow over impervious material.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Holt County have?
Holt County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 63% sand, 22% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Holt County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Holt County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Holt County?
Holt 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 Holt County's soil?
Based on Holt County's Loam texture, pH of 6.6, 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 Holt County?
Holt 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Holt 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.