Johnson County Soil Data
Johnson County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Johnson County, Nebraska
Slightly Acidic Soils in Johnson County
Johnson County soil maintains an average pH of 6.31, which is more acidic than the state average of 6.79 and slightly below the national median of 6.5. The county earns a soil score of 63.6, outperforming the state's general score of 58.9. These conditions favor plants that prefer a less alkaline environment.
A Silty and Substantial Mix
The soil composition consists of 47.2% silt and 29.8% clay, with a smaller 20.0% sand fraction. This high concentration of fine particles creates a dense structure that retains nutrients well but requires careful management to avoid compaction. It provides a stable foundation for agriculture but may be heavy to work when wet.
Strong Water Capacity and Moderate Matter
Organic matter levels sit at 2.94%, which exceeds the national average of 2.0% but remains below the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. The available water capacity is 0.175 in/in, slightly higher than the state average of 0.172. This indicates the soil has a strong potential for sustaining crops through short dry spells.
Planning Around Local Hydrology
Specific drainage classes and taxonomic orders are not currently documented for this county's soil profile. However, the 29.8% clay content suggests the ground may drain more slowly than sandier neighboring regions. Builders and farmers should perform site-specific tests to ensure proper moisture management.
Start Your Garden in Zone 5b
Johnson County is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, where the soil score of 63.6 signals a productive growing environment. This climate and soil combination is ideal for cool-season vegetables and hardy perennials like coneflowers. Clear your garden beds today and take advantage of this above-average Nebraska soil.
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 Johnson County have?
Johnson County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 47% silt, and 30% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Johnson County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Johnson 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 Johnson County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Johnson County.
What crops or plants grow well in Johnson County's soil?
Based on Johnson County's Silty Clay 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 Johnson County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Johnson County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Johnson County
Soil Verdict
Johnson County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°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
Johnson County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Johnson 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.