Oakland County Soil Data
Oakland County, Michigan
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.0
Texture
Loam
Drainage
Poorly drained
Organic Matter
6.3%
Hydrologic Group
B/D
Data Story
About Soil in Oakland County, Michigan
Rich Mollisols of Southeast Michigan
Oakland County features Mollisols with a pH of 5.99, which is closer to the national median of 6.5 than most of the state. These dark, fertile soils are some of the most productive in the region.
A Versatile Loam Mix
The dominant texture is loam, composed of 58.9% sand, 21.7% silt, and 12.1% clay. This balanced mixture provides excellent structure for both residential lawns and professional farming.
Stable Organic Components
The organic matter content is 6.33%, which is higher than the national average but lower than the state's peat-heavy regions. The available water capacity of 0.149 in/in is below the state average, suggesting irrigation is still necessary.
Navigating Poorly Drained Soils
Oakland's soil is classified as poorly drained and falls into hydrologic group B/D. This means the water table is likely high, often requiring drainage systems for construction and specific care in landscape design.
Urban Gardening in Zone 6a
The 6a hardiness zone allows for a wide range of ornamental plants and food crops. With its relatively balanced pH and loam texture, Oakland County is a premier location for lush home landscaping.
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
Poorly drained
Water is removed so slowly that the soil is wet at or near the surface much of the year. Drainage improvement usually needed.
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 6.0. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Oakland County have?
Oakland County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 59% sand, 22% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Oakland County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Oakland County's soil has a pH of 6.0, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Oakland County?
Oakland County has a dominant drainage class of "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 Oakland County's soil?
Based on Oakland County's Loam texture, pH of 6.0, and Poorly drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, rice, cranberries, and other water-tolerant species.
What USDA soil order is found in Oakland County?
Oakland County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Oakland County
Soil Verdict
Oakland 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
Oakland 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 Oakland 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.