Menard County Soil Data
Menard County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.6
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Menard County, Illinois
Neutral and Balanced Soil in Menard
Menard County’s soil features an average pH of 6.61, which is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 6.39 and sits just above the national median. While specific taxonomic data is limited for this region, this neutral pH provides a stable foundation for a wide variety of Midwestern crops.
A Smooth, Silt-Dominant Texture
The ground consists of 61.9% silt and 22.4% clay, balanced by 15.7% sand. This high silt content ensures a smooth, workable texture that retains nutrients effectively while allowing for moderate aeration.
Reliable Moisture and Moderate Organic Matter
With 2.42% organic matter, these fields remain more fertile than the national average of 2.0% despite trailing the state benchmark. An available water capacity (AWC) of 0.205 in/in matches the state average, signaling reliable moisture access for growing plants.
Local Drainage Monitoring Recommended
Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unavailable for this county’s profile. Local gardeners should monitor soil moisture manually to determine if their specific plot requires additional drainage solutions or supplemental irrigation.
Thriving in Hardiness Zone 6a
Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, Menard County supports staples like corn and soybeans alongside diverse vegetable gardens. The soil’s balanced moisture capacity makes it an ideal spot to start a high-yield backyard 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 Menard County have?
Menard County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 62% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Menard County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Menard 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 Menard County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Menard County.
What crops or plants grow well in Menard County's soil?
Based on Menard 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 Menard County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Menard County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Menard County
Soil Verdict
Menard 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
Menard County closely matches the Illinois average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Menard 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.