Morrill County Soil Data
Morrill County, Nebraska
Avg pH
7.2
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Morrill County, Nebraska
Alkaline Western Soils in Morrill County
Morrill County features an alkaline soil profile with a pH of 7.23, significantly higher than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.79. This higher pH is typical of more arid western climates where minerals aren't leached away. The county's soil score is 45.9, reflecting the challenges of gardening in this environment.
High Sand Content Limits Soil Cohesion
The soil is 64.1% sand, 21.2% silt, and 10.9% clay, creating a loose, coarse texture. This high sand percentage means the soil warms up quickly in the spring but has a limited ability to store nutrients. Silt and clay are low, which reduces the soil's risk of compaction under heavy equipment.
Moderate Fertility in a Semi-Arid Zone
Organic matter is a respectable 2.90%, which is well above the national 2.0% benchmark but below the Nebraska average of 3.32%. The available water capacity is 0.147 in/in, trailing the state average of 0.172. Gardeners here must focus on adding mulch to compensate for the lower water-holding potential.
Rapid Drainage Across the Western Plains
While specific drainage classes are unavailable, the 64.1% sand content points toward very rapid drainage and low runoff. This helps prevent standing water but can lead to localized erosion if not protected by cover crops. For builders, these soils generally offer good stability but require dust control during construction.
Tough Plants for Zone 5a Conditions
In Zone 5a, Morrill County gardeners should choose plants that tolerate both alkaline pH and sandy conditions, such as sage or lavender. The high sand content is excellent for peppers and other crops that dislike 'wet feet.' With supplemental water and organic amendments, this ground can be surprisingly productive.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Morrill County have?
Morrill County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 64% sand, 21% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Morrill County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Morrill 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 Morrill County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Morrill County.
What crops or plants grow well in Morrill County's soil?
Based on Morrill 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 Morrill County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Morrill County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Morrill 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.