Scotts Bluff County Soil Data
Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
7.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Moderately well drained
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska
Alkaline Mollisols of the West
Scotts Bluff County features Mollisols with a notably alkaline pH of 7.44. This is much higher than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.79. Such alkaline conditions are typical for the drier, western regions of Nebraska where minerals accumulate.
Loam Texture with a Sandy Lean
The dominant texture is loam, though it contains a high sand content of 57.6% and only 13.2% clay. This provides a coarse feel that allows for excellent aeration and root penetration. It is an ideal texture for crops that require well-drained conditions to prevent rot.
Low Organic Matter and Water Storage
Organic matter is relatively low at 1.49%, falling below the state average of 3.32% and the national 2.0%. The available water capacity is also lower than the state benchmark, measuring 0.156 in/in. Irrigation is essential here to compensate for the soil's lower storage capacity.
Moderate Drainage and Group B Hydrology
The soils are moderately well drained and belong to Hydrologic Group B. This indicates a moderate infiltration rate, making the soil efficient at soaking up irrigation water without excessive runoff. These characteristics make it a stable environment for both farming and construction.
Western Staples in Zone 5a
In hardiness zone 5a, sugar beets and dry beans are legendary successes for this soil type. Gardeners should focus on drought-tolerant species and use compost to improve the low organic matter. With the right water management, these soils are highly productive despite the dry climate.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Water is removed somewhat slowly. May have a slowly permeable layer or seasonal water table.
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 Scotts Bluff County have?
Scotts Bluff County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 58% sand, 27% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Scotts Bluff County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Scotts Bluff County's soil has a pH of 7.4, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Scotts Bluff County?
Scotts Bluff 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 Scotts Bluff County's soil?
Based on Scotts Bluff County's Loam texture, pH of 7.4, 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 Scotts Bluff County?
Scotts Bluff County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Scotts Bluff County
Soil Verdict
Scotts Bluff County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°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. With extreme winter lows, any marginally hardy plants need heavy mulch and wind protection. 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
Scotts Bluff County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5a-5b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
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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.