Ingham County Soil Data
Ingham County, Michigan
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.6
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
13.1%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Ingham County, Michigan
Acidic and Rich Soils in Ingham
Ingham County features an average pH of 5.56, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5 but slightly more alkaline than the Michigan average of 5.30. While taxonomic data for this region is limited, the soil score of 65.5 indicates a high-performing foundation for local agriculture.
A Sandy Foundation with Moderate Silt
The soil contains 51.9% sand and 23.3% silt, providing a balanced structure that supports easy root penetration. With only 10.8% clay, these fields are generally easier to work and less prone to heavy compaction than clay-heavy neighbors.
Strong Organic Matter Boosts Growth
The organic matter content sits at 13.08%, dwarfing the national average of 2.0% but trailing the state average of 19.76%. An available water capacity of 0.184 in/in ensures that crops have steady access to moisture, even during dry spells.
Navigating Ingham's Water Management
While specific drainage classes are not officially recorded for this area, the high sand content suggests naturally effective water movement. Farmers and builders should still perform site-specific tests to ensure stable drainage before starting new projects.
Lush Gardening in Hardiness Zone 6a
The 6a climate paired with high organic matter makes Ingham a prime location for leafy greens, peppers, and tomatoes. Home gardeners can capitalize on this fertile soil to grow vigorous vegetable patches or vibrant perennial beds.
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: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.6. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ingham County have?
Ingham County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 52% sand, 23% silt, and 11% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ingham County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ingham County's soil has a pH of 5.6, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Ingham County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Ingham County.
What crops or plants grow well in Ingham County's soil?
Based on Ingham County's Loam texture, pH of 5.6, 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 Ingham County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Ingham County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Ingham County
Soil Verdict
Ingham 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
Ingham County is somewhat warmer than the Michigan statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ingham 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.