Henry County Soil Data
Henry County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Henry County, Illinois
Henry County's Dark, Rich Earth
Henry County soil has a pH of 6.29, which is slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.39. Despite this, the soil is exceptionally productive, contributing to a high soil score of 80.5. This acidity is within the manageable range for the majority of Midwest row crops.
Increased Sand for Better Flow
The soil contains 20.5% sand, which is notably higher than many neighboring counties, along with 55.2% silt and 21.3% clay. This extra sand improves the soil's workability and helps water move through the profile more easily. The balance of particles makes it less likely to become waterlogged compared to pure clay or silt soils.
Elite Organic Matter Levels
Henry County stands out with an impressive 4.82% organic matter, nearly double the national average and well above the state's 2.94%. This massive reservoir of organic carbon fuels plant growth and enhances soil structure. The available water capacity of 0.205 in/in also beats the state average, providing a perfect safety net for crops.
Superior Agricultural Potential
A soil score of 80.5 ranks this county among the best for farming in Illinois. The sandier composition suggests better-than-average drainage for the region, reducing the risk of root rot in wet years. These soils are highly prized for their resilience and consistent yields.
Garden Success in Zone 5b
Located in zone 5b, Henry County handles cold winters while supporting a massive range of summer vegetables. The extremely high organic matter means your garden will require less fertilizer than almost anywhere else in the state. Plant heavy feeders like pumpkins, corn, or tomatoes to see this soil's true power.
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 Henry County have?
Henry County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 55% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Henry County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Henry County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Henry County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Henry County.
What crops or plants grow well in Henry County's soil?
Based on Henry County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.3, 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 Henry County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Henry County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Henry County
Soil Verdict
Henry County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°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
Henry County is somewhat cooler than the Illinois statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Henry 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.