Cass County Soil Data
Cass County, Michigan
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.0
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
14.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Cass County, Michigan
Acidic Soils with Significant Organic Depth
Cass County features a notably acidic profile with an average pH of 5.02, falling below the state average of 5.30. Despite this acidity, the county maintains a respectable soil score of 54.2. This indicates a soil that is highly responsive to proper management and amendment.
High Sand and Low Clay Profile
With 54.5% sand and only 7.0% clay, the soil is light, porous, and very easy to work. The silt content of 17.4% adds some mineral diversity to the sandy base. This composition is excellent for crops that require fast drainage and loose soil for root expansion.
Rich Organic Matter and Solid Water Capacity
The soil is rich in life, with 14.60% organic matter, nearly seven times the national average. It also features a strong available water capacity of 0.183 in/in, one of the higher ratings in the region. This combination provides a fertile reservoir for plants even during dry spells.
Fast-Draining Soils for Active Growing
The low clay and high sand percentages suggest that these soils drain very quickly. This reduces the risk of standing water and allows farmers to get into their fields earlier in the spring. It is an ideal setup for intensive gardening where water control is vital.
Diverse Potential in Hardiness Zone 6a
In hardiness zone 6a, Cass County is well-suited for berries and root vegetables that thrive in loose soil. The naturally acidic conditions are perfect for growing prize-winning blueberries. Start your garden today and take advantage of the high organic matter in your backyard.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Cass County have?
Cass County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 54% sand, 17% silt, and 7% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Cass County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Cass County's soil has a low pH of 5.0, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Cass County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Cass County.
What crops or plants grow well in Cass County's soil?
Based on Cass County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 5.0, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Cass County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Cass County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Cass County
Soil Verdict
Cass 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
Cass County is somewhat warmer than the Michigan statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Cass County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Michigan
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.