Clinton County Soil Data
Clinton County, Michigan
Avg pH
5.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
8.1%
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Data Story
About Soil in Clinton County, Michigan
Young Entisols with Moderate Acidity
Clinton County features Entisols with a pH of 5.93, which is more alkaline than the state average of 5.30. While it is closer to the national median of 6.5, these soils still lean toward the acidic side.
Sandy Loam Built for Versatility
The composition is 55.7% sand and 23.9% silt, creating a loamy texture that is easy to till. A 12.1% clay component provides enough structure to prevent the soil from feeling too loose or unstable.
Lower Organic Matter Requires Amendments
Organic matter is lower here at 8.14%, trailing the Michigan average of 19.76%. With an available water capacity of 0.176 in/in, plants may need supplemental watering during dry spells to thrive.
Navigating Very Poorly Drained Soils
The soil is very poorly drained and sits in hydrologic group C/D, indicating a high risk for surface runoff. Gardeners often use raised beds here to avoid the natural tendency for water to pool.
Generous Growing in Zone 6a
The Zone 6a rating offers a longer growing season for diverse vegetables and fruit trees. By adding compost to boost organic matter, you can turn this loamy soil into a highly productive 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
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Clinton County have?
Clinton County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 56% sand, 24% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Clinton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Clinton County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Clinton County?
Clinton County has a dominant drainage class of "Very 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 Clinton County's soil?
Based on Clinton County's Loam texture, pH of 5.9, and Very 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 Clinton County?
Clinton County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Clinton 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.