Monroe County Soil Data
Monroe County, Michigan
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.6
Texture
Sandy Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
4.3%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Monroe County, Michigan
Perfectly Balanced Neutral pH
Monroe County features a near-perfect average pH of 6.60, aligning closely with the national median of 6.5. This neutral balance allows for optimal nutrient uptake across a wide variety of plant species.
Consistent Texture and Balance
The soil composition is 56.6% sand and 16.0% clay, providing a stable structure for farming. This mix offers better nutrient retention than the sandier counties to the north while remaining easy to till.
Moderate Organic Matter Levels
With 4.33% organic matter, the county surpasses the national average of 2.0% but remains lower than the Michigan average of 19.76%. The available water capacity of 0.159 in/in indicates a moderate ability to sustain plants through dry periods.
Navigating Coastal Hydrology
Although specific drainage classes are not recorded in the data, the balanced sand-to-clay ratio suggests a stable hydrologic environment. Residents should monitor local groundwater levels given the county's proximity to Lake Erie.
Diverse Potential in Zone 6b
A favorable 6b hardiness zone allows Monroe County gardeners to grow longer-season vegetables and tender fruit trees. The neutral pH makes this an excellent spot for a vibrant vegetable patch or a flowering orchard.
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: Sandy Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Sandy Soil Detected
Sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out. These products boost water retention and organic matter.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Monroe County have?
Monroe County's soil is classified as Sandy Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 57% sand, 26% silt, and 16% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Monroe County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Monroe County's soil has a pH of 6.6, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Monroe County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Monroe County.
What crops or plants grow well in Monroe County's soil?
Based on Monroe County's Sandy Loam texture, pH of 6.6, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Monroe County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Monroe County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Monroe County
Soil Verdict
Monroe County is in USDA hardiness zone 6b, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach -5°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
Monroe County is somewhat warmer than the Michigan statewide average. The zone range of 6a-6b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Monroe 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.