Lincoln County Soil Data
Lincoln County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.0
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.2%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Lincoln County, Nebraska
Neutral Entisols in the Platte Valley
Lincoln County has an average pH of 7.02, making it slightly more alkaline than the national median but very close to the state average. The soil primarily consists of Entisols and holds a soil score of 57.0, which is near the state average of 58.9. This provides a reliable, neutral environment for a wide range of plant life.
Versatile Silt Loam Texture
The dominant texture is silt loam, characterized by 47.1% sand and 35.7% silt. This combination allows for both decent drainage and adequate nutrient retention, with 14.8% clay providing structure. It is a highly versatile soil that is easy to manage for both large-scale farming and small-scale gardening.
Healthy Organic Matter Levels
Lincoln County's organic matter content is 3.20%, which is very close to the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. Its available water capacity of 0.169 in/in is also nearly identical to the state average of 0.172. This consistency makes the county's soil predictable and generally fertile for local growers.
Well-Drained Hydrologic Group B
The soil is classified as well drained and falls into hydrologic group B, indicating a moderate infiltration rate. This is often considered the ideal drainage class for most plants, as it prevents root rot while keeping moisture accessible. It also provides a stable environment for building foundations and infrastructure.
Grow with Confidence in Zone 5b
Lincoln County is located in Hardiness Zone 5b, a region well-suited for traditional Midwestern crops and gardens. The silt loam soil is particularly good for root vegetables like carrots and potatoes that prefer fewer stones and balanced drainage. Start your planting season with confidence in these reliable, well-drained soils.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lincoln County have?
Lincoln County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 47% sand, 36% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lincoln County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lincoln 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 Lincoln County?
Lincoln 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 Lincoln County's soil?
Based on Lincoln County's Silt loam texture, pH of 7.0, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Lincoln County?
Lincoln County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lincoln County
Soil Verdict
Lincoln 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
Lincoln County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lincoln 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.