How to Find Good Topsoil
When most people think of dirt, they think all is created equally. However, dirt comes in various particles, types and mixes. If you want to grow plants successfully, you must have good topsoil. Topsoil is the top layer of the soil that has the highest concentration of organic matter and microorganisms. Because roots are concentrated in this area, most of the nutrients are obtained here. Therefore, good topsoil is critical to plant growth and health.
- Look online or in your local phonebook to find topsoil or soil providers near your location. Some nurseries and garden centers also carry small amounts of topsoil.
- Visit the location to visually inspect the topsoil. Make sure that it is free of trash, debris, and weeds. If you are looking for screened topsoil, it should be free of rock pieces that are greater than three inches in diameter. Any small rock fragments should account for less than five percent of the soil volume.
- Examine the texture of the topsoil. If the soil is too sandy, the soil will have a difficult time holding onto water and nutrients. Likewise, clays and silts tend to have the opposite problem of holding onto water for too long, making it difficult for air to circulate throughout the soil and reach the roots. Look for sandy loam or fine sandy loam soils, as these hold onto just the right amount of water while also allowing air to enter the soil.
- Do not use the presumption that darker topsoil is better. Darker soils often mean an increase in organic material, but can also be from wetland areas. The soils from these regions are most often extremely acidic with a poor soil structure. It is best to avoid these types of soils.
- Perform a soil test if desired to determine the lime and fertilizer requirements as well as the texture and pH. If you are planning on growing crops in the soil, you may want to check the contaminant levels to ensure it is safe for the growth of food products.