Nebraska, situated squarely in the Great Plains, is often recognized for its extensive corn production, yet the state hosts a far more diverse spectrum of vegetation. This agricultural landscape, which covers nearly 90% of the state’s total land area, is a dynamic mix of industrial-scale commodity farming and delicate native prairie ecosystems. The state’s varied growth is shaped by its continental climate, which features hot summers and cold winters, and a dramatic environmental gradient that shifts from east to west.
The Environmental Foundation for Growth
The growing conditions across Nebraska transition significantly from the Missouri River valley toward the arid high plains of the Panhandle. This east-to-west change is marked by a decrease in annual precipitation, which drops approximately one inch every 25 miles westward. The state’s USDA Plant Hardiness Zones generally range from 4b in the colder northwest to 6a in the southeastern corner, reflecting the temperature gradient.
Soil composition also varies widely, determining the natural fertility and water retention capacity of the land. Eastern Nebraska benefits from rich loess soils, composed of wind-blown silt and clay, which are highly suitable for cultivation. Conversely, the north-central Sandhills region is dominated by sandy soils that drain water rapidly and are less fertile, making them largely unsuitable for traditional row crops.
The massive Ogallala Aquifer underlies much of the state, serving as a water source for agriculture in the semi-arid central and western regions. This reservoir allows for extensive irrigation, primarily through center-pivot systems, transforming dry land into highly productive cropland. Nearly all of the water pumped from the aquifer is used for irrigated agriculture, making its management a central factor in the state’s continued crop output.
Nebraska’s Dominant Commodity Crops
The economic identity of Nebraska is defined by a few major commodity crops. Corn, or maize, is the most widely grown crop, with the state consistently ranking among the top national producers. This immense yield is largely utilized for livestock feed, given the state’s large cattle and hog populations, and for the production of ethanol, making Nebraska a significant player in both the food and fuel industries.
Soybeans represent the second largest harvested crop by acreage and value, often grown in rotation with corn to help manage soil health and nutrient levels. Winter wheat is also a consistent crop, providing a source of flour and acting as a rotational component in the drier western parts of the state.
Alfalfa and other hay varieties are grown extensively, providing the necessary forage to support the state’s substantial livestock sector. This network of production—corn for feed and ethanol, soybeans for oil and feed, and hay for cattle—forms what is often termed the “Golden Triangle” of Nebraska agriculture. Corn and soybeans alone account for three out of every four acres of harvested cropland.
Native Flora and Prairie Ecosystems
Beyond the cultivated fields, Nebraska is home to extensive native prairie ecosystems, which comprise three main types: tallgrass, mixed-grass, and the unique Sandhills prairie. The Sandhills, one of the world’s largest stabilized dune systems, is characterized by its deep, sandy soils and is covered by a mixed-grass prairie that resists cultivation. These native grasslands are stabilized by deep-rooted, warm-season grasses such as Big Bluestem, Switchgrass, and Little Bluestem.
The eastern third of the state was historically dominated by Tallgrass Prairie, featuring species like Indiangrass and Switchgrass that thrive in the richer loess soils. Mixed-grass prairie acts as a transition zone across the central part of the state, blending tall and short grasses adapted to intermediate moisture levels. These environments also support a variety of native wildflowers, or forbs, including sunflowers and various species of aster, which are crucial for pollinator health.
Native trees, though less dominant than grasses, primarily follow water sources, such as the Platte and Missouri Rivers. Common deciduous species include Cottonwood, Green Ash, and Boxelder, which take root in riparian zones or sheltered areas. The native flora of the Sandhills, which includes species like sand bluestem and prairie sandreed, is adapted to the region’s specific, nutrient-poor, and well-drained soil conditions.
Specialty Crops and Horticultural Production
Beyond the major commodities, several regional specialty crops cater to specific markets. In the drier western Panhandle, crops like dry edible beans and sugar beets thrive, well-suited to the climate and managed with irrigation. Nebraska is a leading national producer of dry edible beans, including varieties like Great Northern and pinto beans, benefiting from the region’s low humidity.
Sugar beets are a staple crop in the Panhandle, where they are grown for sugar processing at local refineries. These crops are often integrated into rotational systems with corn and wheat, offering farmers a high-value alternative. The state also supports a growing horticultural sector, primarily serving local and regional markets.
Horticultural Products
This small-scale production includes:
- Apples and various berries
- Pumpkins
- Tomatoes
- Other vegetables
Furthermore, a nascent wine industry has established itself, primarily in the southeastern parts of the state, utilizing cold-hardy grape varietals.