Fulton County Soil Data
Fulton County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.5
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Fulton County, Illinois
Neutral pH for Optimal Growing
Fulton County boasts a pH of 6.55, which is almost perfectly neutral compared to the national median of 6.5. This is slightly more alkaline than the Illinois state average of 6.39.
Balanced Ratios for Easy Planting
The soil contains 61.2% silt and 23.0% clay, providing a stable structure for root development. A 15.8% sand portion helps keep the soil workable and prevents excessive compaction during agricultural activities.
Solid Organic and Water Metrics
Organic matter sits at 2.29%, which is higher than the national average but lower than the state's 2.94%. The available water capacity of 0.207 in/in beats the Illinois state average of 0.204.
Steady Moisture Management
High-resolution drainage data is limited, but the balanced ratio of silt and clay suggests moderate moisture movement. The soil's water capacity indicates it can store plenty of hydration for crops during dry spells.
Thriving Gardens in Zone 6a
Hardiness Zone 6a allows for a wide variety of brassicas and root vegetables to thrive in Fulton County. With a near-neutral pH, most garden favorites will grow here without the need for heavy lime applications.
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 Fulton County have?
Fulton County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 61% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Fulton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Fulton County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Fulton County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Fulton County.
What crops or plants grow well in Fulton County's soil?
Based on Fulton County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.5, 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 Fulton County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Fulton County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Fulton County
Soil Verdict
Fulton 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
Fulton County closely matches the Illinois average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5b-6a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Fulton 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.