Often covering the top 6 to 12 inches of soil in the ground, topsoil is vital for growing plants due to its high concentration of minerals. However, not all topsoil is the same, with many containing different organic matter. As such, knowing how to identify high-quality topsoil is crucial for a healthy garden.
So how do you tell if topsoil is good or not? Below, we cover the top three signs to look out for to help determine the quality of any topsoil.
The texture
A good topsoil rich in nutrients should feel gritty and crumble when handled. This gritty texture indicates the presence of healthy minerals, such as calcium and phosphorous. Any topsoil that clumps together is likely to be heavy in clay, which limits the amount of water and oxygen a plant’s roots can access.
The colour
Different types of topsoil generally have varied colours, another key indicator for how to identify high-quality topsoil. The darker the topsoil, the richer in nutrients it typically is, while a lighter-coloured soil will often lack the organic matter required for plants to thrive.
Small, light-coloured fragments in the topsoil may also indicate the presence of lime or salts, which can be harmful to plants. It is also important to be wary of green or greyish-coloured topsoil, as this is often the result of the soil being continuously wet and oversaturated.
Whether it has undergone screening
Topsoil that has been through the screening process will often have a higher nutrient level and be better for water to flow through due to the removal of unnecessary debris.
The screening process involves putting the topsoil through a mesh grid during manufacturing, which ensures the majority of rocks and weeds are removed while allowing topsoil through.
Identifying good quality topsoil: final thoughts
Knowing how to identify a high-quality topsoil can be a huge advantage when it comes to caring for your plants.
If the topsoil in your garden is not of a good quality, purchasing new topsoil to replace it is often the best option. However, with so many different topsoil varieties available, it can be tricky to know the right choice for your garden. For help selecting the best topsoil for your plants, or for any other questions regarding aggregates, speak with one of the experts here at Middleton Tipper Services. Give us a call today on 1227 532688, and a member of our team will be happy to help.
