Saline County Soil Data
Saline County, Nebraska
Avg pH
6.2
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Saline County, Nebraska
Saline County’s Acidic Soil Profile
The soil in Saline County is noticeably acidic with an average pH of 6.20. This is lower than both the national median of 6.5 and the Nebraska state average of 6.79. Local growers may need to monitor acidity to ensure optimal nutrient availability for certain crops.
Silt and Clay Provide Structure
The soil composition is 55.9% silt and 27.3% clay, with a small 16.8% sand fraction. This combination creates a heavy, fine-textured soil that is excellent for retaining nutrients. The high clay content ensures the soil remains firm and productive.
Exceptional Water Retention Levels
Saline County boasts an available water capacity of 0.207 in/in, which is significantly higher than the state average of 0.172. Organic matter is also healthy at 2.73%, beating the national 2.0% average. This soil acts as a massive sponge for crops during the growing season.
Moisture-Rich Soils and Slow Infiltration
The dominant soil classes are not recorded, but the high clay and silt levels suggest a tendency to hold water tightly. This is beneficial for surviving Nebraska heat waves but can lead to slow drainage after heavy storms. Proper field leveling is often key to managing these moisture-rich fields.
High-Yield Potential in Zone 6a
Located in USDA Zone 6a, this county is a prime location for high-yield grain production and gardening. The soil’s superior water capacity supports thirstier vegetables like melons and squash. Adding lime can help balance the 6.20 pH for more acid-sensitive garden plants.
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 Saline County have?
Saline County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 56% silt, and 27% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Saline County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Saline County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Saline County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Saline County.
What crops or plants grow well in Saline County's soil?
Based on Saline County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.2, 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 Saline County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Saline County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Saline 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.