Fill Dirt vs. Topsoil

Soil Uses

• Fill dirt is used when large, empty spaces need filled, such as a former inground swimming pool hole or a natural depression that is going to have a structure put on it. Topsoil is generally used only in the top few inches of the ground, such as establishing a proper foundation for new grass or filling in a garden spot.

Composition

• Fill dirt can have debris in it such as rocks, roots and large clay clumps. Screened fill dirt that is certified free of most debris is available at a higher cost. Topsoil should be a combination of sand, clay and organic material. Topsoil that meets the specifications of the American Society of Landscape Architects is certified to have acceptable amounts of clay, sand and organic material, and meet standards for cleanliness and pH balance.

Special Order

• Soil can be mixed by the supplier depending on your needs. Talk to the vendor and ask what your options are and how you can customize your order of soil.