Jefferson County Soil Data
Jefferson County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Jefferson County, Nebraska
Acidic Silts of the Southeast
Jefferson County features an average pH of 6.32, making it more acidic than the national median of 6.5. Its soil score of 69.3 is comfortably above the state average of 58.9, indicating strong productivity. These soils are characteristic of the rolling hills near the Kansas border.
Silt and Clay Heavy Profile
This county has a heavy soil profile with 51.3% silt and 26% clay, the highest clay content among its neighbors. Sand only makes up 22.7% of the mix, resulting in a dense soil that holds nutrients very well. However, this high clay content can make the ground difficult to work when it is too wet or too dry.
High Water Storage Potential
Organic matter is 2.65%, which is better than the national 2.0% average but under the state's 3.32%. The real strength here is the available water capacity of 0.194 in/in, which is well above the Nebraska average. This soil acts like a sponge, keeping moisture available to plants during late-summer dry spells.
Steady Hydrology in Silent Records
Specific drainage and hydrologic group classifications are currently missing from the digital record for this county. Given the 26% clay content, water likely moves more slowly through this soil than in the sandy western counties. Homeowners should check local site conditions for drainage before starting large construction projects.
Long Seasons in Zone 6a
As one of the warmer spots in Nebraska, zone 6a allows for a longer growing season and a wider variety of perennials. The high water capacity and slightly acidic pH are perfect for blueberries, tomatoes, and lush lawns. It is a fantastic place to start a diverse home orchard or a productive vegetable farm.
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: 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 Jefferson County have?
Jefferson County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 51% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Jefferson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Jefferson County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Jefferson County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Jefferson County.
What crops or plants grow well in Jefferson County's soil?
Based on Jefferson County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Jefferson County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Jefferson County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Jefferson County
Soil Verdict
Jefferson 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
Jefferson County is somewhat warmer than the Nebraska statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Jefferson 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.