Ottawa County Soil Data
Ottawa County, Michigan
Avg pH
5.8
Texture
Sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
6.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Ottawa County, Michigan
Alfisols and Moderate Acidity
Ottawa County features the Alfisols soil order, which is known for being naturally productive and moderately weathered. The average pH of 5.85 is the closest to the national median of 6.5 among this group and is higher than the state average of 5.30. This makes it one of the most chemically balanced soils for general agriculture in the region.
Workable Sandy Loam Texture
The composition is 59.6% sand, 24.2% silt, and 12.8% clay, forming a versatile sandy loam. This texture offers excellent workability and drainage, which is why Ottawa is a hub for Michigan's nursery and greenhouse industry. The balanced silt and clay content provide a stable structure that resists erosion better than pure sand.
Lower Organic Matter and Water Storage
Unlike its northern neighbors, Ottawa has a lower organic matter content of 6.52% and an available water capacity of 0.166 in/in. Both figures are below the Michigan state averages of 19.76% and 0.202 respectively. Gardeners here should focus on adding compost to increase the soil's ability to hold onto moisture and nutrients.
Well Drained Hydrologic Group B
The soil is classified as well-drained and falls into Hydrologic Group B, indicating a moderate infiltration rate. This makes it an ideal middle-ground for diverse uses, from residential landscaping to intensive farming. It drains well enough to prevent swampy conditions while retaining enough water to keep plants healthy.
Diverse Potential in Zone 6a
Being in USDA Zone 6a, Ottawa County enjoys a milder climate that supports a vast range of perennials, vegetables, and fruit. The sandy loam is particularly famous for blueberry production and ornamental nurseries. With a little organic supplementation, your Ottawa County garden can be incredibly productive.
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
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Ottawa County have?
Ottawa County's soil is classified as Sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 60% sand, 24% silt, and 13% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Ottawa County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Ottawa County's soil has a pH of 5.8, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Ottawa County?
Ottawa 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 Ottawa County's soil?
Based on Ottawa County's Sandy loam texture, pH of 5.8, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Ottawa County?
Ottawa County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Ottawa 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.