Kane County Soil Data
Kane County, Illinois
Avg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
6.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Kane County, Illinois
High-Performing Kane County Soils
Kane County boasts a soil score of 85.6, far exceeding the state average of 73.6. Its average pH of 6.29 is nearly ideal for nutrient availability, sitting just below the state and national benchmarks.
Balanced Texture for Heavy Use
The soil mix contains 15.6% sand, 59.0% silt, and 21.0% clay. This balanced composition offers a great compromise between easy drainage and strong nutrient retention for intense agricultural production.
Exceptional Organic Wealth
The organic matter content is a staggering 6.25%, more than double the Illinois state average. This rich biological material, paired with a high water capacity of 0.221 in/in, makes this some of the most fertile land in the country.
Regional Water Dynamics
While specific drainage classes are not listed, the county's exceptional soil score suggests superior natural management of water and nutrients. The high organic matter helps the soil act like a sponge, reducing the risk of rapid runoff.
Productive Gardening in Zone 5b
In Zone 5b, the incredibly rich soil supports massive yields for corn, squash, and pumpkins. Gardeners here will find they need very little fertilizer thanks to the naturally high organic matter levels.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Kane County have?
Kane County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 59% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Kane County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Kane 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 Kane County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Kane County.
What crops or plants grow well in Kane County's soil?
Based on Kane 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 Kane County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Kane County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Kane 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.