Nemaha County Soil Data
Nemaha County, Nebraska
Avg pH
6.6
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Nemaha County, Nebraska
Premier Soil Quality in Nemaha County
Nemaha County features an impressive soil score of 66.4, far exceeding the Nebraska state average of 58.9. The average pH is 6.64, which is very close to the ideal national median of 6.5. This slightly acidic to neutral range is perfect for the diverse agriculture of Southeast Nebraska.
Silt-Rich Profiles and Heavy Clays
This county has a distinct composition of 54.1% silt and 28.5% clay, with only 15.7% sand. This high silt and clay content creates a heavy, nutrient-dense soil that holds onto minerals extremely well. While it can be harder to till when wet, its ability to support plant life is superior.
Top-Tier Moisture Storage for Gardens
The available water capacity is 0.185 in/in, significantly higher than the state average of 0.172 and the highest in this group. Organic matter is 2.65%, comfortably above the national 2.0% average. These factors combine to create a resilient soil that can withstand heatwaves by holding deep moisture reserves.
Managing Heavier Soils and Runoff
The low sand content and high clay levels suggest slower drainage and a higher potential for runoff compared to western counties. This requires careful erosion control on sloped land to protect the valuable topsoil. For builders, the clay content means soil may expand or contract, requiring robust foundation designs.
Bountiful Harvests in Zone 5b
Nemaha County is a gardener's dream in Zone 5b, capable of producing massive yields of corn, beans, and heavy-feeding vegetables. The high clay and silt levels are perfect for fruit orchards and berries that need consistent moisture. Your garden here has the potential to be the most productive in the state.
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: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Nemaha County have?
Nemaha County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 54% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Nemaha County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Nemaha County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Nemaha County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Nemaha County.
What crops or plants grow well in Nemaha County's soil?
Based on Nemaha County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.6, 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 Nemaha County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Nemaha 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.