Merrick County Soil Data
Merrick County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.9
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
2.1%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Merrick County, Nebraska
Mollisol Foundations in Merrick County
Merrick County is dominated by Mollisols, the dark, fertile soils typical of the American grasslands. The average pH is 6.91, which is more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.79. This chemistry reflects the county’s position in the Platte River valley.
Fine Sandy Loam with Steady Structure
The dominant texture is a fine sandy loam, composed of 51.0% sand, 34.3% silt, and 14.8% clay. This mix provides enough sand for drainage and enough silt and clay to maintain a consistent structure. It strikes a functional balance between ease of tillage and the ability to hold vital minerals.
Superior Moisture Retention for Farming
The available water capacity is 0.174 in/in, which is slightly better than the Nebraska average of 0.172. Organic matter is 2.10%, exceeding the national average of 2.0% but remaining below the state average of 3.32%. These traits make the soil a reliable reservoir for water during the Nebraska summer.
Managing Poor Drainage and High Water Tables
Classified as poorly drained with a B/D hydrologic group, this soil often stays wet due to a high water table. This requires careful management for farming and can present significant challenges for building basements or septic systems. Strategic tiling or raised beds are often necessary to prevent root rot in gardens.
Success in Zone 5b's Rich Loam
Merrick County’s Zone 5b climate and fine sandy loam are perfect for moisture-loving crops and heavy feeders like pumpkins. Because the soil can stay wet, it is an excellent home for native wet-meadow species and diverse garden vegetables. Dig in and take advantage of the high water capacity for a lush, productive season.
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
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine 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 Merrick County have?
Merrick County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 51% sand, 34% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Merrick County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Merrick County's soil has a pH of 6.9, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Merrick County?
Merrick County has a dominant drainage class of "Poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Merrick County's soil?
Based on Merrick County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 6.9, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Merrick County?
Merrick County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Merrick County
Soil Verdict
Merrick 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
Merrick County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Merrick 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.