Pike County Soil Data
Pike County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.5
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.0%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pike County, Illinois
Pike County's Stable Chemical Profile
Pike County features a 6.49 average pH, landing nearly exactly on the national median of 6.5. This balanced acidity level supports a wide variety of plant life and exceeds the Illinois state average of 6.39.
Silt and Clay Driven Soils
The soil contains 64.1% silt and 21.7% clay, rounded out by 14.2% sand. This mix provides a steady internal structure that stores nutrients while allowing for better drainage than pure clay soils.
Reliable Water Access for Crops
Organic matter levels sit at 1.97%, which is just below the national 2.0% average and the state benchmark of 2.94%. The available water capacity of 0.203 in/in aligns with the state average, providing reliable moisture for the growing season.
Steady Hydrology Supports Growth
Specific drainage records for the county are limited, but the soil composition suggests a steady ability to hold water. Gardeners should watch for surface crusting after heavy rains due to the high silt concentration.
Diverse Options in Zone 6a
Hardiness zone 6a allows Pike County residents to grow a broad range of fruits and vegetables, from apples to leafy greens. The consistent water capacity and neutral pH make it an inviting environment for new gardeners to succeed.
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 Pike County have?
Pike County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 14% sand, 64% silt, and 22% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pike County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pike County's soil has a pH of 6.5, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Pike County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pike County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pike County's soil?
Based on Pike 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 Pike County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pike County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pike County
Soil Verdict
Pike 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
Pike County closely matches the Illinois average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pike 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.