Lapeer County Soil Data
Lapeer County, Michigan
Avg pH
6.1
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
7.4%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Lapeer County, Michigan
Rich Mollisols of Lapeer
Lapeer County features Mollisols with a pH of 6.06, sitting closer to the 6.5 national median than many Michigan neighbors. These 'dark soils' are naturally rich and less acidic than the state average of 5.30.
The Balance of Fine Sandy Loam
The 'Fine sandy loam' texture comes from a mix of 57.2% sand, 25.9% silt, and 15.9% clay. This balance offers excellent workability while retaining more nutrients than pure sand.
Strong Organic Foundation
Organic matter levels are healthy at 7.44%, significantly beating the 2.0% national average. The available water capacity of 0.172 in/in is slightly below the state average but supports strong growing potential.
Managing Saturated Ground
Classified as 'Poorly drained' with a hydrologic group of A/D, these soils can stay wet for extended periods. Farmers and builders must manage water carefully to prevent saturated roots or foundation issues.
A Haven for Heavy Feeders
Gardeners in zone 6a can take advantage of these fertile Mollisols to grow heavy feeders like tomatoes and squash. The rich soil profile makes this an ideal spot for a productive vegetable garden.
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
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lapeer County have?
Lapeer County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 26% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lapeer County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lapeer County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Lapeer County?
Lapeer County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Lapeer County's soil?
Based on Lapeer County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 6.1, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Lapeer County?
Lapeer County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lapeer 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.