Grundy County Soil Data

Grundy County, Illinois

Avg pH

6.6

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

3.6%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Grundy County, Illinois

Grundy's High pH Potential

Grundy County has a pH of 6.63, the highest among this group and well above the national median of 6.5. This near-neutral acidity is ideal for most commercial crops and diverse home gardens.

Grittier Mix for Better Tilling

This soil has a higher sand content than its neighbors at 25.1%, mixed with 51.0% silt and 23.3% clay. This unique composition improves aeration and makes the soil easier to till in the spring.

Elite Organic Matter Levels

The organic matter is impressive at 3.60%, far surpassing the Illinois state average of 2.94%. However, the available water capacity of 0.187 in/in is lower than the state average of 0.204.

Natural Aeration and Water Flow

Local records are limited, but the relatively high sand content suggests better natural drainage than heavier clay soils found elsewhere. This profile helps oxygen reach plant roots, though it may require more frequent watering.

Cold-Hardy Growth in Zone 5b

Falling into the cooler Zone 5b, Grundy County is perfect for cold-hardy perennials and early-season greens. Take advantage of the high organic matter to grow nutrient-dense vegetables right in your backyard.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 25.1%
Silt: 51.0%
Clay: 23.3%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.6pH
6.63124547269141
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Grundy County have?

Grundy County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 25% sand, 51% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Grundy County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Grundy 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 Grundy County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Grundy County.

What crops or plants grow well in Grundy County's soil?

Based on Grundy 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 Grundy County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Grundy County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.