Leelanau County Soil Data
Leelanau County, Michigan
Avg pH
6.0
Texture
Sand
Drainage
Excessively drained
Organic Matter
5.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Leelanau County, Michigan
Young Entisols Near the Lake
Leelanau's Entisols have a pH of 6.05, making them more alkaline than the state average of 5.30 but still below the national median of 6.5. These 'young' soils are common in the county's famous dune and lake-side landscapes.
High Sand, Low Retention
The soil is predominantly sand at 67.3%, with 21.0% silt and only 9.8% clay. This 'Sand' texture means water moves through the profile very quickly, offering high workability but low natural retention.
Thirsty Ground with Organic Value
Organic matter sits at 5.84%, nearly triple the national average despite being lower than the Michigan state benchmark. A water capacity of 0.138 in/in confirms this soil dries out much faster than the average Michigan field.
Excessively Drained Landscapes
Labeled as 'Excessively drained,' this soil sheds water rapidly, which prevents root rot but challenges plants during droughts. It is ideal for construction but requires careful irrigation for sensitive crops.
Vineyards and Cherry Orchards
Hardiness zone 6b benefits from the Lake Michigan 'lake effect,' making it a premier spot for cherries and grapes. Your sandy soil is perfect for a vineyard or a beach-ready native 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
Excessively drained
Water is removed very rapidly. Very sandy or gravelly soils with little water retention.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Leelanau County have?
Leelanau County's soil is classified as Sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 67% sand, 21% silt, and 10% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Leelanau County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Leelanau County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Leelanau County?
Leelanau County has a dominant drainage class of "Excessively drained." Moderate drainage allows adequate moisture retention while still permitting excess water to drain over time.
What crops or plants grow well in Leelanau County's soil?
Based on Leelanau County's Sand texture, pH of 6.0, and Excessively drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists.
What USDA soil order is found in Leelanau County?
Leelanau County's dominant soil order is Entisols. Entisols are recently formed soils with little to no horizon development. They are common on floodplains, steep slopes, and sandy deposits.
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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.