Wheeler County Soil Data
Wheeler County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.9
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
4.6%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Wheeler County, Nebraska
Young Entisols of Wheeler County
The county features Entisols with a pH of 6.89, placing it on the alkaline side of the 6.5 national median. These soils are relatively young in geological terms and provide a unique mineral profile for local vegetation.
Sandy Silt Loam Texture
The soil is remarkably sandy at 59.5%, though it is officially classified as a silt loam surface. This high sand percentage ensures rapid drainage but results in a lower available water capacity of 0.145 in/in.
Surprising Organic Matter Levels
Wheeler County boasts a high organic matter content of 4.62%, which is well above the state average of 3.32%. This richness helps offset the lower water capacity by improving the soil's ability to hold onto vital nutrients.
Efficient Drainage and Runoff
Classified as well drained and part of hydrologic group B, this land handles heavy rainfall without significant ponding. These traits are ideal for construction and for plants that require excellent aeration around their roots.
Cooler Growing in Zone 5a
As a zone 5a region, Wheeler County has a slightly shorter growing season than its southern neighbors. However, the high organic content provides a fantastic foundation for hardy perennials and specialized native grasses.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt 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 Wheeler County have?
Wheeler County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 60% sand, 25% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Wheeler County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Wheeler County's soil has a pH of 6.9, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Wheeler County?
Wheeler County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Wheeler County's soil?
Based on Wheeler County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.9, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Wheeler County?
Wheeler 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: Wheeler County
Soil Verdict
Wheeler 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
Wheeler County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Wheeler 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.