For most lay people, it can seem like one type of soil is the same as another. As anyone who’s ever engaged with gardening and yard work to a significant extent well knows, however, that nothing could be further from the truth. Different types of soil can have drastic effects on different types of seeds and crops, which in turn can impact everything from the viability of gardens to one’s overall décor. As such, whether you’re looking to plant a new garden, redo your whole lawn, or anything in between, chances are you’re going to need to use topsoil at some level.
Here, then, is a quick guide to some of the most popular types of topsoil today and what they can be used for.
Different Types of Topsoil
For those not in the know, topsoil is the layer of soil which occupies roughly the topmost few inches in a given mound of soil. As a result, this layer will be quite indicative of the nature and type of soil most immediately accessible in a given area. Regardless of what may lie underneath, a sandier area will tend to see sandier topsoil, a moister region moist topsoil, and so on.
There are many different types of topsoil, each of which has a number of purposes to which it is most suited. For example, topsoil made from the chipped bark of trees has become an extremely popular ornamental soil. It has become popular in the UK as well as abroad, particularly in regions of the American Southwest, where water shortages and droughts make maintaining lawns more expensive, thus making lawns of chipped bark requiring little to no water an attractive alternative. There are also various types of mulch and compost made from composted materials, such as mushrooms and other organic waste. Not only are these types of topsoils often quite fertile – and thus perfect for gardens – but they likewise serve as a “green” solution to the problem of waste disposal. Furthermore, there are certain types of platinum and premium topsoils which are useful in terms of demarcating one’s territory. This type of topsoil spreads evenly and distinctly, creating clearly delineated boundaries.
Fertilizer and Lime
And then there are topsoils which are best utilised as fertilisers. Like their mulch and compost-based counterparts, topsoils made from fertiliser and lime can be quite fertile and adaptable to different environments. As such, these are especially useful for those looking to undertake larger growing and gardening projects.
There are many different types of fertilising topsoil available, each of which features its own specific virtues. The best topsoil suppliers in Thirsk can help you find the type of topsoil which best fits and complements your specific growing and gardening needs.
Topsoil Uses
As previously alluded to, topsoil is incredibly versatile in terms of its potential uses. As stated, it makes an excellent mulching, composting, and fertilising material. Topsoil is thus a favourite with gardeners looking to add some extra nutrients to the topmost level of their garden area. In addition, if your yard has seen structural damage, adding topsoil can be a good way to both patch over that damage and begin the long process of healing and restoring the lawn. Adding sandier topsoils as well as those with organic matter can likewise help with lawn drainage.
Whether you’re looking to plant a single flower bed or redo your entire lawn, finding the best topsoil for your needs is a great way to get started.