McDonough County Soil Data
McDonough County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in McDonough County, Illinois
Reliable Central Illinois Soil
McDonough County averages a pH of 6.37, falling just below the national median and the state average. This slightly acidic profile is typical for the region and serves as a stable foundation for agricultural success.
Fine-Textured Silt Dominance
At 69.7%, the silt content here is among the highest in the region, providing a smooth, flour-like texture. With very little sand (7.4%), this soil excels at retaining nutrients but can be susceptible to erosion.
Superior Moisture Storage
The available water capacity of 0.214 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.204 in/in, acting as a buffer against drought. Organic matter is healthy at 2.45%, though it remains below the state average of 2.94%.
Monitoring Surface Water Flow
Dominant drainage classes and hydrologic groups are currently unlisted for the county's major soil types. With a respectable soil score of 76.0, the land is generally reliable, but local observation of water pooling is recommended.
Gardening Success in Zone 6a
McDonough County is in Zone 6a, a versatile climate for both root vegetables and fruit trees. The soil's high water capacity makes it especially forgiving for new gardeners during the drier summer months.
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 McDonough County have?
McDonough County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 7% sand, 70% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is McDonough County's soil acidic or alkaline?
McDonough 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 McDonough County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for McDonough County.
What crops or plants grow well in McDonough County's soil?
Based on McDonough 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 McDonough County?
The dominant USDA soil order for McDonough County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: McDonough County
Soil Verdict
McDonough 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
McDonough 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 McDonough 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.