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Topsoil for lawns and raised beds
Topsoil isn’t like other soil.
Widely used in lots of gardening projects, ranging from topsoil for lawns to topsoil for garden beds, it’s an essential addition to spaces where the soil is less than perfect.
What is topsoil and why does it matter?
Topsoil matters because it’s the delivery system for nutrients; it’s where water is absorbed, and where plants are nourished by sunlight.
Without it, plants simply won’t flourish.
Topsoil is created through the dispersal of rocks and stones broken up by wind and rain. Plants growing among this stony material grow, and eventually decay.
This organic material is then broken down by earthworms, bacteria and fungi, resulting in a richly nutritious mixture that’s perfect for gardening.
Buy high-quality topsoil from Forward Builders’ Supplies. Browse our selection.
Choosing the best topsoil for a healthy lawn
A healthy lawn requires good drainage to avoid becoming waterlogged, but it also needs to have excellent water retention so organic matter decomposes and helps improve the structure of the earth.
Another reason to add topsoil, apart from boosting your lawn’s nutritional properties, is to level uneven lawn surfaces and improve its appearance – making it more likely to be lush, smooth, and green.
But which is the best topsoil for lawn? Well, a general-purpose topsoil will do the job well.
This type of produce is specially formulated for growing grass and promoting a healthy lawn.
Ideal topsoil mixes for raised garden beds
Topsoil for raised beds needs to be premium quality and rich in organic matter if you want your budding plants to thrive.
This is because it’s unlikely to have weed seeds, has a great structure, and is highly fertile. It will also improve drainage and promote healthy root development.
Be wary though of imported topsoil, which can include plants of the kind you really don’t want in your garden, like Japanese knotweed and couch grass, so inspect your topsoil’s makeup thoroughly for things like roots and weeds to ensure your efforts don’t go to waste.
Key differences between lawn and raised bed topsoil
| Raised bed topsoil | Topsoil for lawns |
| • The uppermost layer of soil • Rich in organic matter and nutrients • It’s where all the magic of nutrition and growth happens to new plantings | • Has good drainage and water retention • Contains nutrients that help grass grow • Usually composed of a mixture of sandy soil, compost, and peat moss and perlite • Used to level lawns, improve soil structure, and promote the growth of healthy grass |
How much topsoil do I need for lawn?
You need to buy enough so that you’ll have at least a 10cm (4in) layer of topsoil over a specific area.
Remember that storing topsoil is important too to ensure it retains the nutrients and microbial life that makes it such an essential part of nurturing healthy plants.
Avoid storing it in areas where temperatures fluctuate to extremes – like cold one minute, hot the next – and ensure the airflow is good so the soil doesn’t degrade.
Look for an area that’s well drained, and is away from any contaminants. You can cover it with sheets of plastic, or a tarpaulin, as long as either allows for sufficient airflow.
Finally, regularly check your topsoil to make sure moisture levels are ok and it hasn’t been contaminated.
Browse Forward Builders’ Supplies’ selection of high-quality topsoil products here.
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