Cass County Soil Data
Cass County, Illinois
Avg pH
6.6
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Cass County, Illinois
Slightly Alkaline Soils of Cass County
Cass County soils feature an average pH of 6.60, which sits just above the national median of 6.5 and the Illinois state average of 6.39. While specific taxonomic orders are not categorized in current local records, this near-neutral profile creates a versatile base for most Midwestern plant life. The slightly elevated pH helps maintain nutrient availability compared to the state's more acidic pockets.
A Silty Foundation with Sandy Accents
The soil composition here is 53.1% silt and 20.1% clay, creating a smooth texture that retains nutrients well. A 26.8% sand content provides better-than-average aeration compared to many Illinois neighbors, assisting with root penetration. This balance of particles creates a workable medium that resists the heavy compaction often found in denser clay soils.
Consistent Organic Matter and Water Storage
Organic matter levels reach 2.64%, which is healthy by national standards but slightly trails the Illinois average of 2.94%. The available water capacity is 0.191 in/in, sitting just under the state average of 0.204 in/in. These figures indicate reliable soil that supports steady growth, though it may require more frequent irrigation during dry spells than counties to the east.
Managing Water in Cass County Fields
While specific drainage classes are not formally recorded for this area, the high silt concentration suggests moderate natural drainage. The water storage capacity of 0.191 in/in means the soil holds enough moisture to sustain crops through brief heatwaves without becoming waterlogged. For construction or gardening, the moderate sand content typically aids in preventing significant surface runoff.
Thriving in Zone 6a
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, Cass County is prime territory for corn, soybeans, and hardy perennials like coneflowers. The balanced 6.60 pH is ideal for vegetable gardening, specifically for tomatoes and peppers which thrive in these conditions. Grab your shovel and start a garden, as these silty soils provide a robust environment for most backyard crops.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cass County have?
Cass County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 27% sand, 53% silt, and 20% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cass County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cass County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Cass County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cass County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cass County's soil?
Based on Cass County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.6, 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 Cass County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cass County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cass County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Illinois
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.