Washington County Soil Data
Washington County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.7
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Washington County, Nebraska
Neutral Soils in Washington County
Washington County features a near-neutral pH of 6.75, which is slightly higher than the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is limited for this area, the chemical balance provides an ideal baseline for most regional crops.
High Silt Content Shapes the Land
The soil mix contains 55.2% silt and 26.5% clay, resulting in a fine-textured earth that holds nutrients well. With only 16.7% sand, this composition offers stability but requires careful management to avoid heavy compaction.
Efficient Water Retention and Moderate Matter
The organic matter level of 2.40% sits above the national average of 2.0% but trails the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. However, the available water capacity of 0.196 in/in exceeds the state benchmark, ensuring plants stay hydrated.
Steady Hydrology for Stable Growth
Specific drainage classes are not recorded for this county, but the high silt and clay percentages suggest moderate water retention. The overall soil score of 67.0 indicates a high-performing environment compared to the state average of 58.9.
Hardy Harvests in Zone 5b
Hardiness zone 5b allows for a wide range of vegetables and grains to flourish in this productive soil. Given the high water capacity, your garden will be naturally resilient against the dry Nebraska summer stretches.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Washington County have?
Washington County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 17% sand, 55% silt, and 26% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Washington County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Washington County's soil has a pH of 6.7, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Washington County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Washington County.
What crops or plants grow well in Washington County's soil?
Based on Washington County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.7, 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 Washington County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Washington County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Washington County
Soil Verdict
Washington 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
Washington County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions. 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 Washington 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.