York County Soil Data
York County, Nebraska
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
5.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in York County, Nebraska
Prime Agricultural Earth in York
York County features a slightly acidic pH of 6.32, which is lower than both the national median and state average. This specific acidity level is highly prized for its ability to maximize the availability of micronutrients.
Silt-Dominated Composition
The soil is 60.5% silt and 23.2% clay, creating a heavy, dense texture that is excellent for water retention. With only 16.3% sand, this earth is built for intense moisture storage and long-term stability.
World-Class Organic Content
York County features a staggering 5.76% organic matter, nearly double the Nebraska state average. Its available water capacity of 0.222 in/in is exceptional, providing a massive buffer against summer heat and drought.
Top-Tier Soil Performance
The county earns a remarkable soil score of 85.4, far outpacing the state average of 58.9. This score reflects a landscape with superior physical and chemical properties that minimize the need for heavy irrigation or fertilizers.
Abundance in Zone 5b
The rich, dark earth of York County is some of the best in the state for zone 5b gardening. Whether you are planting a small vegetable patch or a large orchard, these soils offer world-class growing potential.
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
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does York County have?
York County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 61% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is York County's soil acidic or alkaline?
York County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for York County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for York County.
What crops or plants grow well in York County's soil?
Based on York County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 York County?
The dominant USDA soil order for York County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: York County
Soil Verdict
York 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
York County closely matches the Nebraska average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for York 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.