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Topsoil is a key component of successful gardening. If you’re growing herbs, flowers, or plants, or if you need to level some areas in your garden, topsoil may be what you’re looking for. When selecting topsoil, many variants will be available but are all categorized as screened and unscreened topsoil. Below, learn about screened and unscreened topsoil to decide which option is best for your garden. 

Unscreened Soil

Unscreened soil is a material that has been retrieved from excavation and can be used for patching holes in your garden. The soil is in no way sifted or filtered, and it is very common to find roots, weeds, rocks, and debris within the substance. If you're growing plants inside, unscreened soil is generally not recommended. However, the lower cost of unscreened soil will allow you to shape, carve, and level your outdoor garden without denting your wallet. 

Despite the material being great for general garden maintenance, you will have a hard time successfully growing healthy, long-term plants in unscreened soils. The rough quality and rock content can harm the roots of your plants. While you can get away with using unscreened soil for landscaping, many homeowners may find the rocks, dead roots, weeds, and other debris to be aesthetically off-putting. 

Screened Soil

screened and unscreened topsoil Unlike its unscreened counterpart, screened soils have been filtered through a variety of meshes of microns for its final application. Screened soils will generally be more consistent in particle size, which allows nutrients and water to disperse evenly across your garden. Due to the finer consistency of screened soil, the roots of your plants will be able to grow and absorb nutrients effectively. Plants and trees that are fruit producing will benefit from this the most and will have a higher likelihood of growing tall and producing fruits or vegetables. For those who would prefer to garden with a hands-off approach, landscaping with screened topsoil will help your plants grow naturally.

While screened soil generally is stronger than unscreened soils, the additional cost associated with screened soil may make it cost-prohibitive to use liberally in larger garden areas. While you won’t be able to screen with the accuracy of most manufacturing companies, it is possible to purchase unscreened soils and screen them through filters and meshes yourself.

 

If you are planning to be more active in your garden, it doesn’t hurt to have both screened and unscreened topsoil close to hand. If you’re in need of topsoil in Manchester, CT, turn to Manchester Aggregate Supply. For over 40 years, they have served the Manchester community by providing recycled aggregate products for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. To learn more, give them a call at (860) 643-5578.

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