Midland County Soil Data
Midland County, Michigan
Avg pH
6.2
Texture
Fine sand
Drainage
Very poorly drained
Organic Matter
7.3%
Hydrologic Group
A/D
Data Story
About Soil in Midland County, Michigan
Sandy Entisols with Above-Average pH
Midland County's soil is classified as Entisols, which are young soils with an average pH of 6.19. This is significantly higher than the Michigan state average of 5.30 and approaches the national median of 6.5. This relatively neutral pH makes it one of the more versatile counties in the state for nutrient availability.
Fine Sandy Texture with Good Silt Balance
The dominant texture is fine sand, composed of 65.6% sand, 20.9% silt, and 12.1% clay. This mixture provides a more balanced structure than many other sandy counties in Michigan, offering better nutrient retention. The fine sand particles make the soil easy to till but prone to some surface crusting.
Moderate Fertility and Lower Water Storage
Midland has 7.32% organic matter, which is higher than the national average but below the state average of 19.76%. The available water capacity is 0.152 in/in, trailing the state average of 0.202. Supplemental watering may be necessary during dry spells to maintain consistent plant growth.
Very Poorly Drained with High Runoff Risk
Despite being sandy, this soil is classified as very poorly drained and belongs to the A/D hydrologic group. This indicates that a high water table or underlying layers prevent water from moving downward quickly. These conditions often require specialized drainage solutions for both agricultural and residential development.
Extended Growing Potential in Zone 6a
Hardiness zone 6a gives Midland gardeners a reliable growing season for tomatoes, peppers, and even some fruit varieties. The fine sandy soil is ideal for crops that enjoy warm feet, provided you manage the drainage. Get your hands in the dirt this year and enjoy a productive harvest.
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
Very poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface most of the year. Typically wetland soils.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sand
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Midland County have?
Midland County's soil is classified as Fine sand. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 66% sand, 21% silt, and 12% clay. Sandy soils drain quickly but may need more frequent irrigation and fertilization.
Is Midland County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Midland County's soil has a pH of 6.2, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Midland County?
Midland County has a dominant drainage class of "Very 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 Midland County's soil?
Based on Midland County's Fine sand texture, pH of 6.2, and Very poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, drought-tolerant crops, root vegetables, and sandy-soil specialists, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Midland County?
Midland 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.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Midland 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.