Effingham County Soil Data
Effingham County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.2
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
2.2%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Effingham County, Illinois
Silt Loam and Alfisols in Effingham
Effingham's Alfisols feature a silt loam texture and a pH of 6.25, which is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This pH level also sits just below the Illinois state average of 6.39.
Smooth Texture for Better Workability
The soil consists of 66.9% silt and 18.9% clay, creating a smooth-textured profile with moderate workability. A 14.2% sand content ensures the mix remains manageable for most agricultural and landscaping uses.
High Water Capacity Boosts Growth
Organic matter reaches 2.19%, exceeding the national average but trailing the Illinois state average of 2.94%. However, the available water capacity of 0.212 in/in provides better moisture retention than the state benchmark of 0.204.
Reliable Drainage and Stable Soils
Classified as well drained and sitting in hydrologic group B, this soil moves water efficiently after heavy rain. These characteristics reduce the risk of root rot while supporting stable foundations for building projects.
Productive Gardening in Zone 6b
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, the soil supports a wide range of hardy perennials and productive vegetable gardens. Gardeners should view this fertile silt loam as an excellent foundation for cool-season crops.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 Effingham County have?
Effingham County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 14% sand, 67% silt, and 19% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Effingham County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Effingham County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Effingham County?
Effingham County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Effingham County's soil?
Based on Effingham County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.2, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Effingham County?
Effingham County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Effingham County
Soil Verdict
Effingham County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Effingham County closely matches the Illinois average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Effingham 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.