Gallatin County Soil Data
Gallatin County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.2
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.9%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Gallatin County, Illinois
Acidic Alfisols of the South
Gallatin's Alfisols have a silt loam texture and a pH of 6.22, leaning more acidic than the 6.5 national median. This pH level is also slightly lower than the Illinois state average of 6.39.
Silt Loam with Gritty Sand
The soil mix includes 60.1% silt and 21.5% clay, alongside a notable 18.4% sand content. This blend offers a good balance between nutrient holding and physical workability in the field.
Meeting National Fertility Standards
Organic matter measures 1.92%, nearly meeting the national 2.0% average but trailing the state's 2.94%. The available water capacity of 0.201 in/in is just under the Illinois average of 0.204.
Efficient Water Movement in Group B
These well-drained soils belong to hydrologic group B, ensuring that excess water moves away from plant roots efficiently. This characteristic makes the county particularly suitable for farming and sturdy home foundations.
Warm Growing Climate in Zone 7a
Gallatin County sits in Zone 7a, providing a warm climate for a variety of specialty crops. The well-drained silt loam is ideal for starting a productive home orchard or a diverse vegetable garden.
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 Gallatin County have?
Gallatin County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 18% sand, 60% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Gallatin County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Gallatin 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 Gallatin County?
Gallatin 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 Gallatin County's soil?
Based on Gallatin 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 Gallatin County?
Gallatin 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: Gallatin County
Soil Verdict
Gallatin County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Gallatin County is somewhat warmer than the Illinois statewide average.
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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.