Topsoil is commonly found in gardens, vegetable patches and allotments, but what is the reasoning behind this? Thanks to its high nutrient and mineral content, topsoil is great for mixing into those garden borders to encourage root growth and health, along with an extensive list of other benefits.
In this ultimate topsoil guide, we explain what topsoil is, the different types of topsoil available, what it can be used for and how much topsoil you would need for a variety of projects in your garden.
Contents
What is topsoil?
A frequently asked question by gardeners is ‘what is topsoil’? Topsoil can be defined as the top layer of soil that contains most of the ground’s nutrients and fertility.
Regularly confused with organic compost, the primary reason for the difference between the two is that topsoil is a more well-rounded soil option because of both the structure and nutrients it offers for plants and turf. Topsoil is usually screened to a much finer size compared to compost – Alsoils+ Premium Topsoil for example is screened to 10mm.
Different types of topsoil
With different varieties and grades of topsoil available for gardeners and landscapers in the UK, you need to be sure that the topsoil you use is the correct type for the job you’re undertaking.
The 6 types of topsoil are:
- Chalky
- Clay
- Peaty
- Loamy
- Sandy
- Silty
If you want to learn more about the different types of topsoil, we’ve created an in-depth gardener’s guide so you know what topsoil you may be dealing with and how to approach it.
What can topsoil be used for?
With topsoil’s diverse nature, it can be used for a variety of jobs for both domestic gardens and larger-scale trade projects. Topsoil is typically used to cover empty patches, create new raised beds and borders, levelling and laying garden lawns.
Topsoils can be used for:
- Improving drainage
- Levelling an uneven lawn
- Raising flower and plant beds
- Providing a base for new turf
- Growing vegetables
- Enhanced plant growth
- Improving soil structure
As one of the leading suppliers of topsoil on the South Coast, we’re experts in all things gardening and landscaping which is why we’ve created a definitive guide to what topsoil is normally used for.
How much topsoil do I need?
Calculating how much topsoil you need for a project is one of the most commonly asked questions by gardeners and landscapers looking to buy topsoil. If you make a mistake when measuring the area you need the topsoil for, it can lead to a great amount of waste of both topsoil and money!
See our calculator below to work out how much topsoil you need or if you want further guidance and workings out, you can visit our in-depth volume guide.
How is topsoil delivered?
Our range of high-quality fertile topsoils come in 0.75m³ bulk bags and are nutrient-rich and organic, meaning they are the perfect choice for whatever you need them for. When you place an order with us, you may be eligible to receive free shipping by an external courier.
Topsoil deliveries are typically made via a vehicle with a crane offload. To find out more information on how topsoil is delivered in the UK, see our buyer’s guide.
Where can I purchase topsoil from?
Alsoils+ has been servicing domestic and trade customers on the South Coast for over 35 years with the highest quality topsoil, leaving you safe in the knowledge that we can cater for your needs. We supply premium topsoil that is suitable for lawns, growing vegetables and other purposes, so you can be sure your garden is given the love it deserves.
