Lake County Soil Data
Lake County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
6.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Lake County, Illinois
High-Performing Soils in Lake County
Lake County boasts a superior soil score of 87.2, far outpacing the Illinois state average of 73.6. The average pH of 6.37 is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5 but aligns closely with the state average.
Heavy Silt Foundations
The soil is dominated by 58.1% silt and 21.9% clay, creating a dense texture that holds onto nutrients. With only 15.6% sand, the ground offers excellent structural stability but may feel heavy when wet.
Extraordinary Organic Wealth
Organic matter is a remarkable 6.30%, more than double the state average of 2.94% and the national average of 2.0%. This richness, paired with an available water capacity of 0.217 in/in, creates a highly fertile environment for plant growth.
Superior Moisture Retention
While specific drainage classes are not recorded, the high available water capacity indicates soil that stores moisture effectively for crops. Gardeners should watch for slow drainage during heavy rains due to the high silt and clay content.
Prime Growing in Zone 6a
Lake County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, making it perfect for cold-hardy perennials and high-yield vegetable crops. The exceptionally high organic matter provides a natural engine for a thriving home garden.
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 Lake County have?
Lake County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 58% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lake County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lake County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Lake County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Lake County.
What crops or plants grow well in Lake County's soil?
Based on Lake County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.4, 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 Lake County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Lake County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lake County
Soil Verdict
Lake 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
Lake 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 Lake 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.