Genesee County Soil Data
Genesee County, Michigan
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.2
Texture
Muck
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
8.2%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Genesee County, Michigan
Organic Muck and Moderate Acidity
Genesee County is characterized by Muck soils within the Histosols taxonomic order. At pH 6.18, these soils are more acidic than the national 6.5 median but significantly more neutral than the Michigan average of 5.30.
A Sandy and Carbon-Rich Mix
The soil composition features 61.9% sand and 12.5% clay. This mixture provides a unique balance of workability and organic structure, though the high sand content allows for rapid initial water movement.
Rich Organic Matter for Crop Growth
Organic matter sits at 8.18%, which is over four times the national average of 2.0%. While the available water capacity of 0.165 in/in is below the state average, the high organic content supports strong growing potential.
Managing Very Poorly Drained Lands
Classified as very poorly drained and belonging to hydrologic group A/D, these soils require careful water management. High water tables are common, making drainage systems essential for both farming and construction.
Productive Gardening in Zone 6a
The hardiness zone 6a climate is ideal for hearty vegetables and berries. Use the nutrient-rich muck soil to your advantage by starting a backyard garden with moisture-tolerant varieties.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group A — Low Runoff
Sandy, well-drained soils with high infiltration rates. Water moves quickly through the soil profile. Lowest runoff potential when thoroughly wetted.
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: Muck
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
Browse products to improve your soil health and lawn performance.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Genesee County have?
Genesee County's soil is classified as Muck. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 62% sand, 22% silt, and 12% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Genesee County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Genesee County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Genesee County?
Genesee 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 Genesee County's soil?
Based on Genesee County's Muck texture, pH of 6.2, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Genesee County?
Genesee County's dominant soil order is Histosols. Histosols are organic soils (peatlands and bogs) with very high organic matter content. They form in wet, poorly drained environments.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Genesee County
Soil Verdict
Genesee 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
Genesee County is somewhat warmer than the Michigan statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Genesee 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.