Topsoil Calculator

Topsoil Calculator Guide

Quality topsoil is the foundation of a healthy lawn and productive garden. Our calculator helps you determine the exact amount needed for your project, whether you're establishing a new lawn, topdressing existing grass, or creating garden beds.

Recommended Topsoil Depths

• New Lawn: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) minimum for good root development
• Topdressing: 0.25-0.5 inches (0.6-1.3 cm) to level and improve existing lawn
• Vegetable Garden: 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) for most crops
• Raised Beds: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) for deep-rooted plants
• Flower Beds: 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) for annuals and perennials

Topsoil Quality Indicators

• Color: Dark brown to black indicates high organic content
• Texture: Crumbly and loose, not too sandy or clay-heavy
• Screening: Should be screened to remove rocks and debris
• pH Level: Ideally between 6.0-7.0 for most plants
• Organic Matter: Should contain 2-5% organic content

Application Tips

• Remove existing weeds and debris before applying topsoil
• Level the area and ensure proper drainage
• Mix topsoil with existing soil at boundaries to prevent layering
• Water lightly after application to help settling
• Allow 10-15% extra for settling and compaction

Coverage Reference

• 1 cubic yard covers 100 sq ft at 3 inches deep
• 1 cubic meter covers 10 sq m at 10 cm deep
• 40 lb bag covers about 0.75 cubic feet
• 25L bag covers about 0.25 sq m at 10 cm deep

Common Bag Sizes

• Imperial: 20 lb, 40 lb, and 50 lb bags
• Metric: 20L, 25L, 30L, and 50L bags