Grand Traverse County Soil Data
Grand Traverse County, Michigan
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.4
Texture
Gravelly sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
10.1%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Grand Traverse County, Michigan
Gravelly Loams and Moderate Acidity
Grand Traverse County features gravelly sandy loam from the Alfisols taxonomic order. Its pH of 5.38 is slightly more neutral than the state average of 5.30 but remains more acidic than the national median.
Loose Texture for Rapid Drainage
A high sand content of 66.4% and low clay content of 8.2% make this soil easy to cultivate. This mix prevents water from pooling, which is vital for the region's famous fruit-bearing trees.
Five Times the National Organic Average
Organic matter stands at 10.09%, offering a fertile base for agriculture. The available water capacity of 0.149 in/in is lower than the state average, meaning the soil may dry out quickly without supplemental watering.
Ideal Drainage for Orchards
Classified as well drained and in hydrologic group B, these soils are perfect for sensitive root systems. This prevents 'wet feet' for cherry trees and provides stable ground for construction.
Orchards Thrive in Zone 5b
This county is a premier location for cherries and grapes due to its well-drained soils. Home gardeners in zone 5b can find great success with fruit trees and perennials.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Gravelly sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Grand Traverse County have?
Grand Traverse County's soil is classified as Gravelly sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 66% sand, 17% silt, and 8% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Grand Traverse County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Grand Traverse County's soil has a low pH of 5.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Grand Traverse County?
Grand Traverse County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Grand Traverse County's soil?
Based on Grand Traverse County's Gravelly sandy loam texture, pH of 5.4, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Grand Traverse County?
Grand Traverse County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Grand Traverse County
Soil Verdict
Grand Traverse County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°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
Grand Traverse County closely matches the Michigan average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 5b-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Grand Traverse 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.