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Huron County Soil Data

Huron County, Michigan

USDA SSURGO / PHZM

Avg pH

6.4

Texture

Sandy Loam

Drainage

N/A

Organic Matter

11.6%

Hydrologic Group

N/A

Data Story

About Soil in Huron County, Michigan

Premier Soil Quality and Near-Ideal pH

Huron County boasts a superior soil score of 75.4, the highest in the region. Its pH of 6.37 is nearly ideal, sitting just below the national 6.5 median and far above the state average of 5.30.

The Gold Standard Soil Mix

The composition is 57.1% sand, 27.9% silt, and 15.0% clay. This mix offers the best of all worlds: easy workability from the sand and high nutrient-holding power from the clay and silt.

Balanced Fertility for High Yields

Organic matter is healthy at 11.58%, while the available water capacity of 0.170 in/in ensures crops have consistent access to moisture. This combination makes Huron some of the most productive land in the state.

High Versatility for Land Use

Specific drainage class data is limited, but the balanced texture indicates exceptional versatility. Whether for large-scale agriculture or home building, these soils provide a stable and high-performing foundation.

An Agricultural Powerhouse in Zone 6a

From sugar beets to backyard vegetable patches, almost anything temperate will thrive in these soils. In zone 6a, gardeners can expect high yields and healthy plants with minimal effort.

Soil Composition

Sandy Loam
Sand: 57.1%
Silt: 27.9%
Clay: 15.0%
Sandy Loam

Soil pH

6.4pH
6.36778692363608
Strongly AcidicSlightly AcidicNeutralSlightly AlkalineStrongly Alkaline
Ideal lawn range: 6.0 - 7.0

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

O HorizonOrganic layer
0-2"
A HorizonTopsoil
2-10"
B HorizonSubsoil
10-30"
C HorizonParent material
30-60"
R HorizonBedrock
60"+

Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.

Sandy Soil Detected

Sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out. These products boost water retention and organic matter.

Browse Soil Amendments

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of soil does Huron County have?

Huron County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 28% silt, and 15% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.

Is Huron County's soil acidic or alkaline?

Huron County's soil has a pH of 6.4, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.

What is the drainage class for Huron County?

Drainage class data is not currently available for Huron County.

What crops or plants grow well in Huron County's soil?

Based on Huron County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 6.4, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.

What USDA soil order is found in Huron County?

The dominant USDA soil order for Huron County is not currently available in our dataset.

Soil & Planting Advisory: Huron County

Soil Verdict

Huron 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

Huron County is somewhat warmer than the Michigan statewide average.

Other Counties in Michigan

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

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.