Kearney County Soil Data
Kearney County, Nebraska
Avg pH
7.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Kearney County, Nebraska
Neutral and High-Performing Soils
Kearney County features a neutral pH of 7.00, sitting comfortably above the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.79. With an impressive soil score of 66.7, this county is one of the more productive regions in Nebraska. These balanced conditions provide a versatile platform for many different types of vegetation.
Balanced Texture for Easy Working
The soil is a balanced mix of 43.3% silt and 39.3% sand, rounded out by 17.4% clay. This texture offers excellent workability for farmers and gardeners while maintaining enough structure for root stability. The lower clay percentage helps prevent the heavy, sticky conditions found in other parts of the state.
Superior Organic Matter and Moisture
At 3.59%, the organic matter content is significantly higher than the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. The available water capacity is also high at 0.193 in/in, well above the state benchmark of 0.172. This combination makes the soil exceptionally fertile and resilient against drought.
Excellent Hydrological Potential
While specific drainage classes are not listed, the high 0.193 water capacity suggests the soil effectively stores moisture for plant use. The blend of sand and silt likely promotes steady infiltration rather than rapid runoff. Local land managers benefit from a soil profile that balances drainage and retention naturally.
Thriving Gardens in Kearney County
Kearney County sits in Hardiness Zone 5b, perfect for growing corn, soybeans, and diverse home gardens. The high soil score of 66.7 suggests that almost anything suited for the climate will thrive here with minimal amendment. Plant some heirloom tomatoes or peppers to see the productivity of this soil firsthand.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Kearney County have?
Kearney County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 39% sand, 43% silt, and 17% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Kearney County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Kearney County's soil has a pH of 7.0, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Kearney County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Kearney County.
What crops or plants grow well in Kearney County's soil?
Based on Kearney County's Loam texture, pH of 7.0, 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 Kearney County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Kearney County is not currently available in our dataset.
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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.