Shelby County Soil Data
Shelby County, Illinois
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.4
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.5%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Shelby County, Illinois
Typical Illinois Soil Chemistry
Shelby County's soil pH of 6.41 is a near-perfect match for the state average of 6.39. This level is just slightly below the national median of 6.5, providing a familiar environment for traditional midwestern crops. The consistency in pH across the county supports its strong overall soil score of 77.1.
Rich Silt for Optimal Workability
The soil is composed of 65.2% silt, 20.6% clay, and 14.2% sand. This high silt content gives the ground a smooth texture that holds moisture and nutrients effectively. The moderate clay levels provide necessary structure without making the soil too difficult to plow or till.
Above Average Water Retention
Shelby County boasts an available water capacity of 0.210 in/in, which exceeds the Illinois state average. Its organic matter content of 2.52% is well above the national 2.0% benchmark. This combination creates a fertile, resilient sponge that keeps plants hydrated even during dry spells.
Stable Hydrology for Deep Roots
With a high water capacity and 65.2% silt, the county's hydrology supports deep and steady root development. Although specific drainage classes are not listed, the soil's ability to retain moisture makes it very productive for row crops. Proper management ensures these silty loams remain a cornerstone of local agriculture.
Diverse Planting Options in Zone 6b
As part of Zone 6b, Shelby County enjoys slightly milder winters than its northern neighbors. The high water capacity is perfect for thirsty crops like corn, pumpkins, and lush turfgrasses. Your local soil is ready to support a high-yielding home garden or a beautiful landscape.
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 Shelby County have?
Shelby County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 14% sand, 65% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Shelby County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Shelby 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 Shelby County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Shelby County.
What crops or plants grow well in Shelby County's soil?
Based on Shelby 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 Shelby County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Shelby County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Shelby County
Soil Verdict
Shelby County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Shelby 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 Shelby 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.