Otsego County Soil Data
Otsego County, Michigan
Avg pH
4.5
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
32.9%
Hydrologic Group
A
Data Story
About Soil in Otsego County, Michigan
Fine Sandy Loams and Entisols
Otsego County is primarily composed of fine sandy loam belonging to the Entisols soil order. With an average pH of 4.53, it is considerably more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This young, acidic soil profile is common in the northern Lower Peninsula and supports a variety of forest and agricultural uses.
Gritty Loam with High Sand
The soil is 54.5% sand, 19.9% silt, and 14.3% clay, creating a classic fine sandy loam texture. This allows for excellent aeration and ease of tillage, making it a favorite for local farmers who need to get into the fields early. The presence of clay and silt provides just enough structure to keep the soil from becoming pure sand.
Superior Water Capacity and Organic Wealth
The organic matter content of 32.93% is well above the Michigan average of 19.76%, indicating a very rich biological profile. The available water capacity of 0.215 in/in also exceeds the state average of 0.202. These metrics suggest a fertile ground that holds both nutrients and moisture effectively for growing seasons.
Well Drained Hydrologic Group A
Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group A, Otsego’s soil manages water efficiently without staying overly saturated. This is the gold standard for most gardening and farming because it balances moisture access with necessary drainage. It also makes for stable building foundations with few drainage-related concerns.
Vibrant Growing in Zone 5a
Otsego’s Zone 5a climate and fine sandy loam are perfect for high-value crops like potatoes and fruit trees. The high organic matter means you can grow a lush garden with fewer synthetic fertilizers than in other counties. Pick up a shovel and take advantage of these well-balanced, fertile Michigan soils.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Otsego County have?
Otsego County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 55% sand, 20% silt, and 14% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Otsego County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Otsego County's soil has a low pH of 4.5, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Otsego County?
Otsego 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 Otsego County's soil?
Based on Otsego County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 4.5, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Otsego County?
Otsego 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 Otsego 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.