Perry County Soil Data
Perry County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silt loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
1.8%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Perry County, Illinois
A Silty Foundation in Southern Illinois
Perry County features Alfisols with an average pH of 6.30, sitting slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.39. While the national median is 6.5, this silt loam soil provides a solid base for regional agriculture.
High Silt Content Defines the Terrain
The soil is comprised of 69.8% silt, 21.2% clay, and a small 9.0% sand fraction. This composition creates a dense texture that retains nutrients effectively but can be prone to compaction if worked when wet.
Exceptional Water Storage Capacity
Organic matter levels reach 1.77%, trailing the state average of 2.94% and the national 2.0% benchmark. However, the available water capacity of 0.210 in/in exceeds the state average, ensuring plants have access to moisture during dry spells.
Managing Poorly Drained Soils
The land is classified as poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group C/D. These conditions mean the soil sheds water slowly, requiring careful management for successful farming and building projects.
A Long Season in Zone 7a
Located in hardiness zone 7a, Perry County offers a long growing season for heat-loving crops like melons and peppers. This climate, paired with high water storage, makes it an ideal spot to start a productive summer garden.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silt loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Perry County have?
Perry County's soil is classified as Silt loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 9% sand, 70% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Perry County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Perry 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 Perry County?
Perry County has a dominant drainage class of "Poorly drained." Poorly drained soils retain water for extended periods, which can limit crop choices and may require tile drainage or raised beds.
What crops or plants grow well in Perry County's soil?
Based on Perry County's Silt loam texture, pH of 6.3, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Perry County?
Perry County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Perry County
Soil Verdict
Perry County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. 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
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Perry County is somewhat warmer than the Illinois statewide average. The zone range of 6b-7a within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Perry 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.