Will County Soil Data

Will County, Illinois

Avg pH

6.6

Texture

Silt Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

4.9%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Will County, Illinois

Near-Neutral Soils in Will County

Will County stands out with a pH of 6.56, making it more neutral than the state average of 6.39. This level actually sits slightly above the national median of 6.5. This chemical balance makes the soil highly adaptable for a wide variety of plant species without needing lime.

Dense Mix with High Nutrient Retention

The soil includes 51.7% silt and 22.6% clay, creating a heavy structure that holds nutrients effectively. Sand accounts for 23.1% of the profile, which helps maintain some level of aeration. This combination results in a soil that is sturdy and resistant to nutrient leaching.

Strong Organic Foundation

Organic matter is robust at 4.94%, significantly outperforming the state average of 2.94%. Although the water capacity of 0.193 in/in is slightly below the state mean, the high organic content keeps the soil fertile. The county earns an impressive soil score of 79.6.

Adaptable Land for Modern Use

Dominant drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not specified in the current dataset. However, the high clay content suggests the soil retains moisture well but may require drainage tiles in agricultural settings. These soils provide a stable foundation for the county's rapid development.

Versatile Planting in Zone 6a

Hardiness Zone 6a allows for a diverse range of ornamental trees and edible crops. This near-neutral pH is a dream for gardeners wanting to grow everything from tomatoes to flowering shrubs. Your garden will thrive in this nutrient-rich, dark Midwestern soil.

Soil Composition

Silt Loam
Sand: 23.1%
Silt: 51.7%
Clay: 22.6%
Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.6pH
6.5640905605623
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Will County have?

Will County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 23% sand, 52% silt, and 23% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Will County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Will 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 Will County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Will County.

What crops or plants grow well in Will County's soil?

Based on Will 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 Will County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Will County is not currently available in our dataset.

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.