Lenawee County Soil Data

Lenawee County, Michigan

Avg 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

Loam
Sand: 49.7%
Silt: 30.8%
Clay: 17.7%
Loam

Soil pH

5.9pH
5.92522627896276
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

Group B — Moderate Runoff

Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.

Runoff potential:Moderate

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

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.

Frequently 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.

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.