Red Willow County Soil Data
Red Willow County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.1
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Red Willow County, Nebraska
Alkaline Entisols Lead the Way
Red Willow soils belong to the Entisol order and show an average pH of 7.06. This is significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and the Nebraska state average of 6.79. These young soils provide a unique chemical foundation for local agriculture.
A Fine Sandy Loam Texture
The soil contains 52.4% silt and 27.7% sand, resulting in a fine sandy loam classification. While the 17.8% clay content provides some structure, the high silt levels ensure a smooth texture that remains relatively easy to work with machinery. This mix facilitates decent airflow to plant roots.
Low Organic Matter, High Water Storage
The organic matter sits at 1.88%, which falls below both the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 3.32%. However, the available water capacity of 0.192 in/in beats the state average of 0.172. This soil stores moisture efficiently despite its lower carbon content.
High Infiltration and Moderate Drainage
Classified as moderately well drained, these soils allow water to move through the profile at a steady pace. They belong to Hydrologic Group A, meaning they have a high infiltration rate even when thoroughly wetted. This reduces the risk of surface runoff and erosion during heavy rains.
Gardening in Hardiness Zone 6a
Sitting in USDA Zone 6a, this county is ideal for growing winter wheat, corn, and hardy perennials. Gardeners should focus on adding compost to boost the lower organic matter levels. With consistent irrigation, the high water capacity supports vibrant summer vegetable harvests.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
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 Red Willow County have?
Red Willow County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 28% sand, 52% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Red Willow County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Red Willow County's soil has a pH of 7.1, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Red Willow County?
Red Willow County has a dominant drainage class of "Moderately well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Red Willow County's soil?
Based on Red Willow County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 7.1, and Moderately well drained, the soil is well suited for drought-tolerant crops and native grasses, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Red Willow County?
Red Willow County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Red Willow County
Soil Verdict
Red Willow 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
Red Willow 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 Red Willow 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.