Moultrie County Soil Data
Moultrie County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.5
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Moultrie County, Illinois
Ideal pH Balance in Moultrie
Moultrie County soil reaches a pH of 6.50, hitting the national median exactly and sitting slightly above the state average. This ideal balance supports a thriving ecosystem of soil microbes and efficient nutrient cycling for crops.
Sturdy Structure and High Clay
The composition is defined by 62.3% silt and 24.6% clay, with sand making up 13.1% of the profile. This high clay and silt mix provides a sturdy structure that anchors roots firmly and resists the leaching of nutrients.
Fast-Drying Summer Soil
The soil contains 2.61% organic matter, outperforming the national average of 2.0%. Its available water capacity of 0.191 in/in is lower than the state benchmark, meaning the soil may dry out faster during the peak of the summer heat.
Check for Surface Runoff
Dominant drainage and hydrologic group data are not available for this county’s soil records. Residents should monitor their land for runoff patterns, as the high clay content can sometimes lead to slower surface water infiltration.
Perfect for Midwestern Staples
Falling within USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, Moultrie County is excellent for growing corn, beans, and summer squash. With a solid soil score of 72.4, this land is ready for you to plant a vibrant and productive 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 Moultrie County have?
Moultrie County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 13% sand, 62% silt, and 25% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Moultrie County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Moultrie County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Moultrie County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Moultrie County.
What crops or plants grow well in Moultrie County's soil?
Based on Moultrie County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 6.5, 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 Moultrie County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Moultrie County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Moultrie County
Soil Verdict
Moultrie 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
Moultrie County closely matches the Illinois average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Moultrie 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.