Landscaping Materials

Topsoils

Whether you have a large landscaping project, are relaying a sport pitch or have a small garden to smarten up, Soils and Stone provides consistent, high-quality, certified topsoils for sale, as well as soil improvers and subsoil for your project, however big or small.

All our topsoils adhere to the latest British Standards specification, but why is this so important?

Why are British Standards so important for topsoil classification?

BS3882:2015 sets out stringent requirements for the classification and composition of topsoil, noting the recommended measurements of acidity, fertility, texture, as well as advice on handling and contaminants.

Understanding soil texture, for example, is important. Texture refers to the proportions of sand, silt and clay and affects both moisture retention and drainage. Clay and silt soils tend to be retain moisture and can be described as ‘heavy’. Alternatively, sandy soils are typically free-draining and are described as ‘light’, but can be prone to dryness because of the sand content. Topsoils have a roughly equal composition, and are often referred to as ‘loamy’ with both good moisture retention and drainage.

The British Standards ensure that all soil intended for sale adheres to rigorous testing and is fit for purpose.

The standard includes two categories of topsoil: multipurpose and specific purpose.

  • Multipurpose is the most commonly requested topsoil and is used on many landscaping projects. The specification covers nutrient, particle size, organic content, pH value and contaminants.
  • Specific purpose refers to topsoils that are either acidic (ericaceous), calcareous or low fertility. The same rigorous testing is applied, but with emphasis on the pH value and nitrogen/phosphorous/potassium (NPK) levels. These topsoils should not be used in general landscaping projects.

Click on the items in the sidebar for details of our full range of multi-purpose, specific-purpose and lightweight topsoils.

Get in touch. 020 8546 3860. sales@soilsandstone.co.uk