Otoe County Soil Data
Otoe County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.9%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Otoe County, Nebraska
Naturally Acidic River-Region Soil
Otoe County has an average soil pH of 6.36, making it more acidic than the Nebraska average of 6.79 and slightly below the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic order data is not recorded here, the soil score of 68.5 indicates a high-quality growing environment. This acidity level is generally favorable for most traditional Midwestern crops and gardens.
Rich Silt with Clay Influence
The soil composition is 53.0% silt and 28.7% clay, with a relatively low 16.0% sand content. This high clay and silt mix provides excellent nutrient retention and helps prevent fertilizers from leaching away. However, the lower sand content means the soil may take longer to warm up in the spring and requires careful tilling to avoid clods.
Strong Water Retention for Dry Years
At 2.88%, the organic matter content is slightly below the Nebraska state average of 3.32% but still above the national average of 2.0%. The soil excels at moisture management, with an available water capacity of 0.186 in/in compared to the state average of 0.172 in/in. This extra storage capacity provides a critical buffer for plants during the heat of a Nebraska summer.
Planning for Heavy Moisture
While specific drainage classes are not listed, the high clay content suggests the soil may hold onto water longer than the state's sandier western regions. Gardeners and farmers should monitor for standing water after heavy rains to prevent root rot. This soil structure is well-suited for ponds or moisture-tolerant landscaping but may require drainage tile for large-scale agriculture.
A Productive Patch in Zone 6a
Located in Hardiness Zone 6a, Otoe County is a prime spot for growing everything from orchard fruits to hearty leafy greens. The high available water capacity makes this an excellent location for deep-rooted perennials and grain crops. Get your hands dirty this season and capitalize on soil that outperforms the state average score by nearly ten points.
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
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Otoe County have?
Otoe County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 53% silt, and 29% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Otoe County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Otoe County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Otoe County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Otoe County.
What crops or plants grow well in Otoe County's soil?
Based on Otoe County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Otoe County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Otoe County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Otoe County
Soil Verdict
Otoe County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Otoe County is somewhat warmer than the Nebraska statewide average. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Otoe 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.