Mecosta County Soil Data
Mecosta County, Michigan
Avg pH
4.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
16.4%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Mecosta County, Michigan
Acidic Soils of Central Michigan
Mecosta County's soil average pH is 4.91, making it more acidic than both the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 5.30. This acidity level is typical for Michigan's forest-derived soils and influences which nutrients are available to plants. Taxonomic data is not provided, but the chemical profile suggests a need for acid-tolerant crops.
Sandy Soil with Low Silt and Clay
The soil composition is primarily 60.2% sand, with only 12.8% silt and 6.9% clay. This high sand percentage allows for excellent aeration and easy root penetration but limits the soil's ability to store nutrients. It is a light soil that warms up quickly in the spring, allowing for earlier planting.
Strong Organic Matter for Central Michigan
Organic matter content is 16.44%, which is significantly higher than the national 2.0% average and close to the state average of 19.76%. This organic wealth helps offset the low clay content, bringing the available water capacity to 0.178 in/in. While still below the state average of 0.202, it provides a decent buffer against drought.
Natural Drainage in a Glacial Landscape
Formal drainage and hydrologic classifications are not available for the dominant soil types in this county. Given the high sand content, users can generally expect rapid water movement through the soil profile. Always check local ponding potential if your property sits in a low-lying glacial basin.
Cool-Season Crops in Zone 5b
With a hardiness zone of 5b, Mecosta is perfect for growing pumpkins, squash, and hardy greens. The sandy soil is especially beneficial for root crops like carrots that need room to expand without resistance. Begin your gardening journey this season and watch your Central Michigan plot thrive.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Mecosta County have?
Mecosta County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 60% sand, 13% silt, and 7% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Mecosta County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Mecosta County's soil has a low pH of 4.9, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Mecosta County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Mecosta County.
What crops or plants grow well in Mecosta County's soil?
Based on Mecosta County's Loam texture, pH of 4.9, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Mecosta County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Mecosta County is not currently available in our dataset.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Mecosta 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.