Perkins County Soil Data
Perkins County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Perkins County, Nebraska
Alkaline Western Nebraska Soil
Perkins County soil is distinctly alkaline with a pH of 7.04, which is higher than the national median of 6.5 and the Nebraska state average of 6.79. While formal taxonomic data is not provided, this pH level reflects the more arid, mineral-rich environment of western Nebraska. This slight alkalinity can influence which micronutrients are most available to plants.
A Sand-Dominant Landscape
Sand makes up 51.5% of the soil profile, combined with 35.7% silt and only 12.9% clay. This high sand content ensures rapid drainage and excellent aeration for plant roots, though it offers less natural nutrient storage than clay-heavy soils. The texture makes the soil exceptionally easy to till and work, even after rainfall.
Resource-Challenged Growing Conditions
The organic matter content stands at 1.95%, falling below both the state average of 3.32% and the national benchmark of 2.0%. The available water capacity is 0.161 in/in, which is lower than the Nebraska average of 0.172 in/in. These factors contribute to a total soil score of 46.6, suggesting a need for careful soil management and targeted irrigation.
Rapid Infiltration and Dry Profiles
Specific drainage classifications are not listed, but the majority-sand composition suggests the soil is naturally well-drained. This rapid infiltration prevents standing water but also means moisture and nutrients can pass through the root zone quickly. Landowners should consider mulch and organic additions to help hold onto precious water.
Resilient Planting in Zone 5b
Perkins County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, necessitating the use of cold-hardy and drought-tolerant plant varieties. Grasses and small grains often thrive here, especially when managed to conserve the limited organic matter. For local gardeners, focus on building soil health with compost to boost the naturally lower fertility levels.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Perkins County have?
Perkins County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 51% sand, 36% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Perkins County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Perkins 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 Perkins County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Perkins County.
What crops or plants grow well in Perkins County's soil?
Based on Perkins County's Loam texture, pH of 7.0, 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 Perkins County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Perkins County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Perkins County
Soil Verdict
Perkins 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
Perkins County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Perkins 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.