With spring just around the corner, it’s about that time of year to break out the fertilizer and gardening hoe. To maintain a beautiful and healthy garden throughout the upcoming months, it’s also essential to purchase topsoil, which is a clay, silt, and sand mix. If you’re unsure whether you need screened or unscreened topsoil, here is a comprehensive guide to help you compare both varieties and their unique benefits. 

3 Differences Between Screened & Unscreened Topsoil

1. Ingredients

Unscreened topsoil refers to soil that has been excavated from a site. It has not been broken down, which means it may still contain large and small debris such as roots, weeds, rocks, and sand mix. While screened topsoil is made from the same soil, it goes through a sifting process to remove the debris. 

2. Uses

Because it’s filtered, screened topsoil is the only type recommended for gardening uses. This is because it’s easier to mix with compost and fertilizer and can be evenly sized and customized for drainage purposes. It also saves you from extra labor as weeds and sticks have already been removed.

Unscreened topsoil can be used to create a bottom layer or base for a new garden or landscape. It’s also used for construction purposes, such as filling holes or leveling a slope.  

3. Benefits

The main advantage of screened topsoil is that you can customize this soil and sand mix based on the unique needs of your project. For instance, you can choose the consistency of the particles. Unscreened topsoil is beneficial for other projects because it’s more cost-effective as it does not have to go through the filtering process. 

When it’s time to purchase topsoil for your property, reach out to the experts at Spallina Materials. Based in Mt. Morris, NY, this family-owned and -operated business features a wide selection of concrete and aggregate materials to residential, commercial, and industrial clients throughout the Southern Tier, Finger Lakes, and Rochester areas. Their team of experts can work with you to help you determine the right materials for your project. Call (585) 658-2248 to request a free estimate for a sand mix or visit them online to learn more about their list of products.