Examining Topsoil
Topsoil can look absolutely top notch at first glance, but you may still find yourself buying low quality if you skip doing a thorough examination of the product. With some companies it can be very difficult to get yourself a refund once you’ve made that commitment, so make sure you inspect it till you’re 100% satisfied.
Is this your first purchase and not quite sure where to get started? We’ve put together a list of tips that will help you see the difference between great quality and the topsoil that should be avoided at all costs.
Look at the Colour
When it comes to quality topsoil, a big hint is the hue of the product. Dark brown or black usually translates into good quality, whereas light brown or a slightly grey tinge gives the game away.
For example, our ‘Bury Hill Black’ is still regarded as one of the best premium grade planting soils in the country.
Smell The Soil
You’re going to want to get your nostrils up close and personal with the topsoil. Smell it, and if you get that sweet odour, you’re hopefully on the right track.
What’s the Texture Like?
The next step in your examination is the texture test. When you walk over the soil, it should feel a little sandy. Getting soil stuck on your shoes in clumps is not a good sign.
You should also feel the soil with your hands. Get a small batch and attempt making a small ball out of it. Once you open up your palm, decent soil will instantly crumble. Lower quality soil will stay clumped together.
Get Professional Advice
Choosing the right topsoil is an important step in the gardening process, so you want to be fully confident that you’re purchasing the right product. If you aren’t completely sure or if you’re just starting out, get a third party involved and have them analyse the soil for you.
Stones + Roots = Bad News
The topsoil in itself may be full of juicy nutrients and crumble beautifully in your hand, but if it’s riddled with stones, roots, weeds or worse, you’re still going to want to stay well clear of the product. Topsoil often comes from building sites, which can result in lower quality due to the included debris. Ask about the origin of your topsoil before buying and get everything in writing, just in case.
Know Your Grades
Topsoil is generally divided into various quality levels, such as premium or economy grade. The trick is buying a product that matches the claims. Economy soil can still be beneficial, as long as you know just what you’re buying. The Royal Horticultural Society has a very good guide for the varying criteria of these grades.
Shop Around
Even if the potential purchase ticks all the boxes and passes your tests, shop around before making your final decision. Not only will you potentially get a better deal elsewhere, but you’ll gain a lot of valuable knowledge by sampling differing collections of topsoil. You will be much more in tune with what exactly makes the different between quality and subpar products.
We advise you keep a written copy of the tips we’ve outlined above, so that you have something to refer to once you’re out in the field. Eventually, your checklist will become second nature and you will easily be able to recognise quality topsoil.
For more information and to buy quality topsoil, please contact us on 01306 877540 or look at our premium grade topsoils and loams.
Article written by Bury Hill Topsoil & Logs.
