Soil types in Michigan

What this means

What Michigan soils mean for gardens, lawns and septic systems

For gardens

Typical topsoil in Michigan is moderately acidic: pH 6.0 (most land between 4.5 and 7.0). Many vegetables grow well here, and some gardens benefit from a little lime. Test before adding any.

Sandy topsoil covers 43% of the land. It drains fast and warms early in spring, but dries out and loses nutrients quickly: mulch, compost and steady watering help. The most common surface texture is sand (21% of the land).

45% of the land is somewhat poorly to very poorly drained, so soil stays soggy for long spells after rain and in wet seasons. Raised beds, plants that tolerate wet feet, and not working the soil while wet all help.

For lawns and yards

On 61% of the land, rain soaks in slowly (hydrologic groups C and D, including dual groups that are D until drained). Expect runoff and puddles after heavy rain: core-aerate compacted lawns and keep ground sloping away from foundations.

A seasonal high water table comes within 18 inches of the surface on 49% of the land, often in spring. Basements, sump pumps and lawns in low spots feel it first.

For septic systems

For conventional septic absorption fields, NRCS rates 95% of the land in Michigan very limited, 4% somewhat limited and <1% not limited (1% not rated, such as urban land, pits or water).

Where the soil is very limited (slow permeability, a high water table, flooding, shallow bedrock or steep slopes), alternative systems such as mound or sand-filter designs are common and cost more.

Only a licensed site evaluation or perc test at the actual lot decides whether a system is allowed and which design.

Generated from the mapped numbers above using fixed rules, not a site visit. See how these notes are written.