Why is topsoil good for growing crops

After all, plants rely on topsoil, the uppermost layer of the earth's surface, for water and necessary nutrients. The more organic matter it has , the darker the soil will look like what you may see sold in bags or bulk as "black dirt".

This type of soil is very easy to dig in and support healthy plant growth. However, the type of soil in your yard may look very different. Depending on your region, it can vary from reddish clay to beige sandy soil.

Here's what you need to know about improving your topsoil. These four common assumptions about topsoil can trip you up. But knowing these basics will help you successfully create the best environment you can for your plants. Topsoil can differ dramatically, even in the same yard and from one garden bed to another.

All the earth in your yard is made up of sand, silt, and clay in various amounts. The best ratios of these three elements allow for good drainage yet hold enough moisture for roots. Your soil can also vary in pH, which is a measure of how acidic or alkaline it is; some plants such as bigleaf hydrangeas are more affected than others by this soil quality. If you recently moved into a home that was previously owned by a skilled gardener, then maybe this is true.

But more often than not, the quality of soil around homes, especially newly constructed ones, isn't the best for plants. It takes time to build up high-quality soil that includes generous amounts of decomposed plants, called organic matter. This is a vital component that gives topsoil good drainage , just the right water-holding capacity, and a loose, easy-to-dig quality. Topsoil provides plants its basic functions in order for them to survive, which include water, air and food.

These 3 elements create the perfect environment for these plants to grow in their natural habitat. The topsoil plays a fundamental role in holding the roots of these plants together, where all of the water is stored. Having loose topsoil is a great way for plants to grow to their fullest potential, since the looseness allows the plants roots to spread easily.

The potting soil you need will depend on where you are growing your plants — indoors or outdoors. Will it need to have ingredients to help with greater water retention or well-draining? These are a few factors to consider when choosing the perfect potting mix for your potted plants. For a comparable product in these states click here. Garden soils are formulated to be mixed with the native soil found in your garden or landscape for in-ground planting.

It is not made for using in containers like the potting mix above. The particle size in a garden soil is slightly larger to help create pockets in the soil that allow greater penetration of water and air deeper into the ground. This helps develop a stronger root mass for a more lush, healthier plant. Garden soils can be formulated to be used to grow a wide variety of plants from flowers and vegetables to trees and shrubs.

There is also the existing soil in your garden or yard, which can be a unique combination of clay, sand, silt, and loam. In most cases, the soil composition in your area will be predominantly one or two of these soil types which can make in-ground gardening very challenging or very satisfying.

And then, there is topsoil. True topsoil is found in native soil. It is the top layer of soil, which can be 4 to 12 inches in depth. The texture and compilation of materials may vary. However, topsoils that are more loamy than clay or sand based are often best because they are rich in organic matter that holds not only moisture, but also an entire ecosystem of beneficial microbial life that contribute nutrients for healthy plant growth.

Topsoil purchased at a garden center can be an economical way to amend your garden bed and lawn. There are different types of topsoil, so be sure you pick the one best suited for your project. Check out our guide to improving your topsoil for more information.

In certain parts of the UK, you may also find that your soil contains chalk. This will often be obvious from the chalky white particles that may be visible in the soil. However, you may still have alkaline soil, even without visible chalk. To check, drop a small piece of soil into a jar of vinegar.

If it froths up, the soil is alkaline. These soils are very free-draining, and organic matter decomposes fast, which makes them a challenge for gardeners. It is, however, very difficult to reduce the pH significantly for a long period, and make them less alkaline, so you will need to choose your plants with care, and avoid lime-hating species such as rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias.