Houghton County Soil Data
Houghton County, Michigan
Avg pH
4.3
Texture
Silt Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
58.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Houghton County, Michigan
Highly Acidic and Silty Profile
Houghton County features a very acidic pH of 4.25, significantly lower than the state average of 5.30. This chemistry is a defining trait for the unique northern plant communities found here.
Unique Silt-Dominant Texture
The soil is dominated by silt at 76.5%, with very little sand (15.0%) or clay (6.4%). This silty profile can become compacted if worked while wet, requiring careful management to maintain soil health.
Massive Organic Wealth
Organic matter is incredibly high at 58.44%, nearly thirty times the national average of 2.0%. The water capacity is also high at 0.395 in/in, creating a soil that holds water and nutrients tenaciously.
Managing High Moisture Reserves
While specific drainage data is limited, the extreme silt and organic content suggest a soil that remains consistently moist. These characteristics are typical of land that requires moisture-tolerant plant varieties.
Berry Lovers Rejoice in Zone 5b
The acidic, high-organic soil is a dream for blueberries and other acid-loving shrubs. Despite the cold zone 5b climate, the soil's fertility provides a rich base for a specialized northern garden.
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: Silt Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Houghton County have?
Houghton County's soil is classified as Silt Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 15% sand, 77% silt, and 6% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Houghton County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Houghton County's soil has a low pH of 4.3, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Houghton County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Houghton County.
What crops or plants grow well in Houghton County's soil?
Based on Houghton County's Silt Loam texture, pH of 4.3, 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 Houghton County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Houghton County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Houghton 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.