Topsoil: Its Types And Why You Need It

Written by Builders Sand & Gravel Inc. on . Posted in Blog

types of topsoilWhether you’re a seasoned gardener or you’re still developing your green thumb, it’s no secret that topsoil is one of the most important aspects of your outdoor growing projects. As the uppermost layer of soil, usually between two and eight inches down, it houses some of the most important nutrients and raw material for both landscaping and gardening. But one topsoil certainly doesn’t fit all. There are many types of topsoil, each with their own benefits to your garden and landscaping project.

Ultimately, the types of topsoil you use depend on your project. But before we answer the question “what kind of topsoil do I need for my garden?” We first need to look at what exactly topsoil is.

What Is Topsoil?
Topsoil is a highly valuable gardening material that can be delivered to construction sites and homes through topsoil delivery services. It can be used to supplement or replace difficult soil in gardens, as it’s a very nutrient-dense material. In fact, most topsoil blends contain between 2% and 10% organic material.

Are There Different Types of Topsoil?
Yes! The type of topsoil you should be using is really dependent on its make-up. Topsoil is made up of various combinations and percentages of other soil types, blended with organic matter. The most popular of these soil types is called “sandy loam,” and it’s the one used by most gardeners. It is roughly 40% silt, 40% sand, and 20% clay, which provides for an incredibly fertile soil that holds nutrients and moisture around a plant’s roots. It also doesn’t waterlog or drain too quickly. Other types include clay soils, fertile but very prone to water logging, and sandy soils which are low in nutrients due to the speed at which it drains.

Why You Should Get Topsoil
Topsoil is incredibly fertile, depending on the percentages of nutrients within it. If you get the sandy loam type soil preferred by most gardeners, you’ll experience a highly fertile garden. You might have to experiment depending on the flora that you plan to grow. You should speak to your soil provider to get a better understanding of what type of soil you should get for your project.

If you have any questions about topsoil, the different types of topsoil, or the delivery of this much-needed farming and landscaping tool, don’t hesitate to ask. After all, an educated gardener is a great gardener!