Keep reading to learn more about the differences between topsoil, mulch, and compost, and be sure to contact Lehnhoff’s Supply for any materials you might need in Timonium!
During this time of year, many homeowners in Timonium are gardening, landscaping, and getting their hands in the dirt. Whether they have vegetable gardens, flowers, trees, or grass lawns, Timonium homeowners can use a variety of landscaping and maintenance supplies to keep their plants healthy and beautiful. Topsoil, mulch, and compost are three materials that may seem similar but have very distinct characteristics and uses. Keep reading to learn more about the differences between topsoil, mulch, and compost, and be sure to contact Lehnhoff’s Supply for any materials you might need in Timonium!
Topsoil for Volume and Growth Medium
Topsoil is the layer of dirt that sits above the dense subsoil. It typically erodes over time, so semi-frequent replenishing is necessary. The earth in which you plant flowers, veggies, and shrubs is often topsoil, and maintaining a nutrient-rich layer of humus is crucial for your plants. Adding new topsoil to your garden can help you keep an adequate volume of growth medium for your plants, and incorporating compost can add vital nutrients.
Mix Compost Into Topsoil for Nutrients and Organic Compounds
Gardeners often mix compost into their topsoil to add nutrients, but compost and dirt are not interchangeable. Compost is made of mostly-decomposed organic matter, and it represents a crucial part of the soil cycle. Adding compost to topsoil by tilling or raking it in reintroduces nutrients, feeding the plants, bacteria, and fungi in your yard. Because it degrades into nutrient-rich material over time, compost should not be used as a replacement for fill dirt or topsoil.
Cover Topsoil with Mulch for Insulation and Cover
Mulch is typically made of shredded wood bark or wood chips, though stone mulches and plastic coverings are also popular. Mulch is purely used as a protective layer and should not be treated as a growth medium. The material insulates against extreme temperatures and sun, and it also acts as a weed control measure. Adding mulch on top of topsoil can help keep your plants protected, and it is particularly useful during early spring and summer.
Questions? Lehnhoff’s Supply is Here to Help
If you still have more questions about how to best prepare your landscape or garden for summer and fall, the trained professionals at Lehnhoff’s Supply are here to help you. Find us at 2708 Belair Road, Fallston, MD 21047 and give us a call at 410-510-7646. For tips, tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
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