Champaign County Soil Data
Champaign County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
3.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Champaign County, Illinois
Matching the Illinois State Standard
Champaign County soils perfectly mirror the state average with a pH of 6.39, slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This baseline is characteristic of the highly productive prairie soils found across Central Illinois. While taxonomic data is currently limited, the chemical profile is optimized for the region's signature agricultural output.
Heavy Silt Dominance in the Heartland
The soil is dominated by 60.4% silt and 24.3% clay, with a relatively low sand content of 15.3%. This high silt-to-clay ratio gives the ground a heavy, moisture-retentive feel that can be difficult to work when wet. However, this mix is world-renowned for its ability to store the essential minerals needed for high-yield farming.
Superior Organic Matter Levels
Champaign County boasts 3.02% organic matter, surpassing both the state average of 2.94% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is a solid 0.193 in/in, ensuring that plants have deep reservoirs to draw from during the peak of summer. This high fertility score of 72.9 reflects the county's reputation as a premier agricultural powerhouse.
Slow and Steady Water Retention
Local records do not specify a dominant drainage class, but the high silt and clay percentages indicate slow natural drainage. The soil is designed to hold onto water, with a capacity of 0.193 in/in, which is excellent for drought resistance but can lead to muddy conditions in spring. Gardeners should consider raised beds if they encounter heavy spring rains that linger in the low spots.
Maximize Your Zone 6a Harvest
With a Zone 6a hardiness rating, your garden can support everything from crisp apples to late-season pumpkins. The 3.02% organic matter provides a natural nutrient boost that few other regions can match without heavy composting. Whether you are planting a small flower bed or a large vegetable patch, these fertile soils are ready to produce.
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 Champaign County have?
Champaign County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 15% sand, 60% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Champaign County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Champaign County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Champaign County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Champaign County.
What crops or plants grow well in Champaign County's soil?
Based on Champaign County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Champaign County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Champaign County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Champaign County
Soil Verdict
Champaign County is in USDA hardiness zone 6a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -10°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
Champaign County closely matches the Illinois average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Champaign 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.