Soil Temperature in Nebraska
The current average 2-inch soil temperature across Nebraska is 54°F, based on 6 USDA and NOAA monitoring stations. Readings range from 48°F to 62°F. Last updated May 18, 2026.
Current Planting Conditions
The pre-emergent herbicide window is opening across Nebraska with soil averaging 54°F at 2 inches. Monitor your city's specific readings for optimal timing, since crabgrass germinates when soil sustains 55°F.
Monitoring Stations in Nebraska (6)
| Station | 2" Temp | Last Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Rogers Farm #1 (Lancaster) | 60°F | 2026-05-18 |
| Johnson Farm (Chase) | 48°F | 2026-05-18 |
| Harrison 20 SSE | 51°F | 2026-05-18 |
| Whitman 5 ENE | 52°F | 2026-05-18 |
| Lincoln 8 ENE | — | 2026-05-18 |
| Lincoln 11 SW | 62°F | 2026-05-18 |
Cities in Nebraska (15)
| City | ZIP | Current Temp | Distance from state center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bellevue | 68005 | — | 203 mi |
| Blair | 68008 | — | 188 mi |
| Columbus | 68601 | — | 126 mi |
| Fremont | 68025 | — | 171 mi |
| Grand Island | 68801 | — | 87 mi |
| Hastings | 68901 | — | 98 mi |
| Kearney | 68845 | — | 64 mi |
| Lincoln | 68501 | — | 161 mi |
| Norfolk | 68701 | — | 127 mi |
| North Platte | 69101 | — | 58 mi |
| Omaha | 68101 | — | 201 mi |
| Oshkosh | 69154 | — | 132 mi |
| Papillion | 68046 | — | 197 mi |
| Scottsbluff | 69361 | — | 201 mi |
| Sidney | 69160 | — | 167 mi |
Soil Temperature FAQ for Nebraska
What is the current soil temperature in Nebraska?
The current average 2-inch soil temperature across Nebraska is 54°F, based on 6 USDA and NOAA monitoring stations. Readings range from 48°F to 62°F depending on location and elevation.
When should I apply pre-emergent in Nebraska?
Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil at 2 inches reaches 55°F for several consecutive days. Timing varies across Nebraska, so check your city's page for station-specific readings and the pre-emergent timing recommendation.
When can I plant grass seed in Nebraska?
Cool-season grasses (fescue, bluegrass) can be seeded when soil holds between 50 and 65°F. Warm-season grasses (bermuda, zoysia) need soil above 65°F. Timing varies by location, so check your city's planting window for the dates specific to your area.