Mix imported topsoil with what's on the site
When soil is mixed, plants do better
If the site doesn't have enough topsoil for landscaping, buy more but make sure the new soil is mixed with what's already there. If good topsoil is applied over a clay subsoil without mixing, water trapped by the clay can drown plants. Even if the subsoil drains well, the roots of the plants may not penetrate deeply, preferring to stay in the rich loam at the surface. When buying topsoil, look for the nearest source to reduce the environmental impact of transportation. Aerate subsoil with auger holes before adding topsoil to loosen soil that may have been compacted during construction.
Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia
