Lenawee County Soil Data
Lenawee County, Michigan
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
8.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Lenawee County, Michigan
Lenawee's Productive Alfisols
Lenawee County is dominated by Alfisols with a pH of 5.93, offering a slightly acidic environment compared to the 6.5 national median. This pH level is higher and more balanced for agriculture than the Michigan average of 5.30.
The Goldilocks Loam Mix
The dominant texture is a classic 'Loam,' comprised of 49.7% sand, 30.8% silt, and 17.7% clay. This balanced mix provides the perfect combination of drainage, nutrient storage, and ease of tilling.
Top-Tier Growing Potential
Fertility is high with 8.49% organic matter, far exceeding the 2.0% national average. An available water capacity of 0.188 in/in keeps moisture accessible for crops longer than many other Michigan counties.
Well Drained and Versatile
These 'Well drained' soils belong to hydrologic group B, meaning they have a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. This makes the land versatile for both large-scale farming and residential development.
An Agricultural Powerhouse
With a 6a hardiness zone and superior loam soil, Lenawee is an agricultural leader. Whether you are planting corn or carrots, your soil provides one of the best foundations in the state.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
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 5.9. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Lenawee County have?
Lenawee County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 50% sand, 31% silt, and 18% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Lenawee County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Lenawee County's soil has a pH of 5.9, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Lenawee County?
Lenawee County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Lenawee County's soil?
Based on Lenawee County's Loam texture, pH of 5.9, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Lenawee County?
Lenawee County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Lenawee County
Soil Verdict
Lenawee 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
Lenawee County is somewhat warmer than the Michigan statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Lenawee 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.