Kimball County Soil Data
Kimball County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.2
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Kimball County, Nebraska
Alkaline High Plains Soil
Kimball County's soil has a pH of 7.15, making it more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. The county receives a soil score of 46.3, reflecting the limitations of a high-altitude, semi-arid environment. These levels suggest that lime-hating plants like blueberries will struggle without significant soil amendments.
Sand and Silt Dominance
The soil is composed of 53.0% sand and 32.2% silt, with a clay fraction of 14.4%. This sandy-silt mix creates a porous environment that allows for good air circulation around plant roots. While it is easy to dig and plant, it may not hold onto fertilizers as effectively as heavier clay soils.
Challenges with Organic Matter
Organic matter in Kimball County is 1.88%, which is below the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 3.32%. Despite this, the available water capacity is a respectable 0.170 in/in, nearly matching the state average of 0.172. This suggests that the soil can still support growth if organic inputs are increased.
A Focus on Moisture Storage
Although specific drainage classes are not provided, the 0.170 in/in water capacity indicates the soil holds moisture better than its sand content might suggest. Proper management is needed to protect the thin layer of organic matter from erosion. Understanding local hydrology is key to sustainable farming in this high plains region.
Gardening in the High Plains Zone 5a
Kimball County's Zone 5a climate requires tough plants that can handle wind and alkaline soil. Think about planting hardy herbs like lavender or robust grains that can tap into the soil's moderate water capacity. Start a small test plot this season to see what thrives in your local microclimate.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Sandy Soil Detected
Sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out. These products boost water retention and organic matter.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Kimball County have?
Kimball County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 53% sand, 32% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Kimball County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Kimball County's soil has a pH of 7.2, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Kimball County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Kimball County.
What crops or plants grow well in Kimball County's soil?
Based on Kimball County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 7.2, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Kimball County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Kimball County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Kimball County
Soil Verdict
Kimball County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°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. With extreme winter lows, any marginally hardy plants need heavy mulch and wind protection. 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
Kimball County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5a-5b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Kimball 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.